US6251113B1 - Ophthalmic microsurgical system employing surgical module employing flash EEPROM and reprogrammable modules - Google Patents

Abstract

A system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. The microsurgical instruments are for use by a user such as a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface provides information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes surgical modules connected to and controlling the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The surgical modules are also connected to the data communications bus. The data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the surgical modules. Other features are also disclosed including a main control, an endo-illuminator system, a phacoemulsification handpiece, surgical scissors, a vitrectomy cutter, a surgical foot control, a remote control, a cart.

Description

This application claims the benefit of Provisional No. 60/025,498 filed Aug. 29, 1996.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to microsurgical and ophthalmic systems and, particularly, to a control system for operating microsurgical instruments.

Present day ophthalmic microsurgical systems provide one or more surgical instruments connected to a control console. The instruments are often electrically or pneumatically operated and the control console provides electrical or fluid pressure control signals for operating the instruments. The control console usually includes several different types of human actuable controllers for generating the control signals supplied to the surgical instruments. Often, the surgeon uses a foot pedal controller to remotely control the surgical instruments.

The conventional console has push-button switches and adjustable knobs for setting the desired operating characteristics of the system. The conventional control system usually serves several different functions. For example, the typical ophthalmic microsurgical system has anterior and/or posterior segment capabilities and may include a variety of functions, such as irrigation/aspiration, vitrectomy, microscissor cutting, fiber optic illumination, and fragmentation/emulsification.

While conventional microsurgical systems and ophthalmic systems have helped to make microsurgery and ophthalmic surgery possible, these systems are not without drawbacks. Microsurgical and ophthalmic systems are relatively costly and are often purchased by hospitals and clinics for sharing among many surgeons with different specialties. In eye surgery, for example, some surgeons may specialize in anterior segment procedures, while other surgeons may specialize in posterior segment procedures. Due to differences in these procedures, the control system will not be set up with the same operating characteristics for both procedures. Also, due to the delicate nature of eye surgery, the response characteristics or “feel” of the system can be a concern to surgeons who practice in several different hospitals, using different makes and models of equipment.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,933,843, 5,157,603, 5,417,246 and 5,455,766, all of which are commonly assigned and the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference, disclose improved microsurgical control systems. For example, such systems provide improved uniformity of performance characteristics, while at the same time providing enough flexibility in the system to accommodate a variety of different procedures. The systems shown in these patents improve upon the prior art by providing a programmable and universal microsurgical control system, which can be readily programmed to perform a variety of different surgical procedures and which may be programmed to provide the response characteristics which any given surgeon may require. The control system is preprogrammed to perform a variety of different functions to provide a variety of different procedures. These preprogrammed functions can be selected by pressing front panel buttons.

In addition to the preprogrammed functions, these patents disclose providing each surgeon with a programming key, which includes a digital memory circuit loaded with particular response characteristic parameters and particular surgical procedure parameters selected by that surgeon. By inserting the key into the system console jack, the system is automatically set up to respond in a familiar way to each surgeon.

For maximum versatility, the console push buttons and. potentiometer knobs are programmable. Their functions and response characteristics can be changed to suit the surgeons' needs. An electronic display screen on the console displays the current function of each programmable button and knob as well as other pertinent information. The display screen is self-illuminating so that it can be read easily in darkened operating rooms.

Although the above-described systems provide improvements over the prior art, further improvements are needed to improve performance, simplify operation, simplify repair and replacement, reduce the time and cost of repairs, and so forth.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Among the several objects of this invention may be noted the provision of an improved system which permits network communications between its components; the provision of such a system which is modular; the provision of such a system which permits distributed control of its components; the provision of such a system which reconfigures itself automatically at power-up; the provision of such a system which permits operation in a number of different modes; the provision of such a system which operates in the different modes in a predefined sequence; the provision of such a system which permits adaptation to different configurations; the provision of such a system which is easily reprogrammable; and the provision of such a system circuit which is economically feasible and commercially practical.

Briefly described, a system embodying aspects of the invention controls a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses the microsurgical instruments in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface provides information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes first and second surgical modules. Each surgical module is connected to and controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The surgical modules are also connected to the data communications bus which provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the first and second surgical modules. In particular, data may be transmitted between the surgical modules and/or between the user interface and one or more of the surgical modules.

Another embodiment of the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses the microsurgical instruments in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface provides information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a surgical module and a remote control circuit. The surgical module is connected to and controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The remote control circuit is connected to and controls a remote control unit as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The remote control unit operates to change the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments during performance of the surgical procedures. Both the surgical module and the control circuit are also connected to the data communications bus which provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the surgical module and the remote control circuit. In particular, data may be transmitted between the surgical module and the control circuit and/or between the user interface and either or both of the surgical module and control circuit.

Yet another embodiment of the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses the microsurgical instruments in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a user interface providing information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a memory storing a plurality of operating parameters. A central processor retrieves a set of the operating parameters from the memory for the microsurgical instruments. The set of operating parameters retrieved by the central processor approximate an individualized set of surgeon-selected operating parameters provided by the user via the user interface. The system further includes a surgical module connected to and controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of the set of operating parameters retrieved from the memory.

Yet another embodiment of the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses the microsurgical instruments in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a user interface providing information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a memory storing a plurality of operating parameters which are retrievable from the memory as a function of user-selected modes. Each mode is representative of one or more surgical procedures to be performed and is defined by operation of at least one of the microsurgical instruments. A central processor retrieves a set of the operating parameters from the memory for the microsurgical instruments to be used in a selected one of the modes. The system further includes a surgical module connected to and controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of the set of operating parameters retrieved from the memory.

Another system embodying aspects of the invention controls a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses the microsurgical instruments in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface, including a central processor, provides information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a surgical module which is connected to and controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The surgical module has a flash EEPROM storing executable routines for controlling the corresponding microsurgical instrument connected to it during performance of the surgical procedures and is connected to the data communications bus. The data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the module and the central processor reprograms the flash EEPROM via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user.

In another embodiment, the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses the microsurgical instruments in performing ophthalmic: surgical procedures. The system includes a data communications bus and a user interface connected to the data communications bus. The user interface, including a central processor, provides information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments. The system also includes a surgical module which is connected to and controls one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters. The surgical module is connected to the data communications bus which provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the module. In this instance, the central processor executes routines to identify and initialize the module communicating via the data communications bus.

Yet another embodiment of the invention is a system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments connected thereto. A user, such as a surgeon, uses the microsurgical instruments in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The system includes a user interface which provides and displays information to the user and receives information from the user which is representative of operating parameters of the ophthalmic procedures and operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments to be used by the surgeon in performing the ophthalmic procedure. The user selects a particular procedure via the user interface. An aspiration module of the system is adapted to receive different microsurgical cassettes, each having different color-bearing insert. Each color indicates the procedure for which the cassette is to be used. The system also includes a sensor for sensing the color of the color-bearing insert when the cassettes are received in the system and for providing information to the user interface when the color of the color-bearing insert of the cassette received by the system does not correspond to the particular procedure selected.

Alternatively, the invention may comprise various other systems and methods.

Other objects and features will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective of a microsurgical control system according to the invention for use with ophthalmic microsurgical instruments and having a plurality of modules;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective of a base unit of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective of the base unit shown without a front cover;

FIG. 5 is a front elevation of a base unit chassis;

FIG. 6 is a top plan of the base unit chassis;

FIG. 7 is a rear elevation of the base unit;

FIG. 8 is a left side elevation of the base unit front cover;

FIG. 9 is a perspective of a typical module of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a rear elevation of the module;

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary bottom plan of the module;

FIG. 12 is a perspective of a typical base unit and module assembly;

FIG. 13 is a fragmentary cross-section taken in the plane of line5B—5B of FIG. 7 but with a module installed in the base unit;

FIG. 14 is a fragmentary cross-section taken in the plane of line5C—5C of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram of a communications network according to the invention;

FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram of a termination circuit for selectively terminating the network of FIG. 15;

FIGS. 17 and 18 are a block diagram of a user interface computer according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a communications network circuit for the user interface computer of FIGS. 17-18;

FIG. 20 is a schematic diagram of a termination circuit of the network circuit of FIG. 19 for selectively terminating the network;

FIG. 21 is a block diagram of the system of FIG. 1 illustrating data flow in the system according to the invention;

FIG. 22 is an exemplary screen display of a numeric keypad according to the invention;

FIGS. 23 and 24 are exemplary flow diagrams illustrating the operation of the central processor in the user interface computer for defining operating modes and mode sequences for the system;

FIGS. 25 and 26 are exemplary flow diagrams illustrating the operation of the central processor in the user interface computer for adapting setup files for the system;

FIGS. 27-30 are exemplary screen displays generated by the user interface computer for selecting an operating mode according to the invention;

FIG. 31 is an exemplary flow diagram illustrating the operation of a central processor in the user interface computer for automatically configuring the system;

FIG. 32 is a block diagram of an irrigation, aspiration and/or vitrectomy module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 33 is a block diagram of a phacoemulsification and/or phacofragmentation module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 34 is a block diagram of an air/fluid exchange, electric scissors and/or forceps module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 35 is a block diagram of a bipolar coagulation module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 36 is a block diagram of an illumination module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 37 is a block diagram of a peripheral foot control circuit according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 38 is a block diagram of a peripheral intravenous pole control circuit according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 39 is a block diagram of a power module according to a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 40-42 are schematic diagrams illustrating a communications and power backplane in the base unit of FIGS. 3-8;

FIGS. 43-60 are schematic diagrams illustrating the irrigation, aspiration and/or vitrectomy module of FIG. 32;

FIG. 61 is a schematic diagram illustrating a cassette detector for use with the irrigation, aspiration and/or vitrectomy module of FIGS.32 and43-60;

FIGS. 62-88 are schematic diagrams illustrating the phacoemulsification and/or phacofragmentation module of FIG. 33;

FIGS. 89-103 are schematic diagrams illustrating the air/fluid exchange, electric scissors and/or forceps module of FIG. 34;

FIGS. 104-113 are schematic diagrams illustrating the bipolar coagulation module of FIG. 19;

FIGS. 114-125 are schematic diagrams illustrating the illumination module of FIG. 36;

FIGS. 126-136 are schematic diagrams illustrating the foot control circuit of FIG. 37;

FIGS. 137-146 are schematic diagrams illustrating the intravenous pole control circuit of FIG. 38; and

FIGS. 147 and 148 are schematic diagrams illustrating a pressure sensing circuit for use with a scroll pump according to an alternative embodiment of the irrigation, aspiration and/or vitrectomy module of FIGS.32 and43-60;

FIGS. 149 and 150 are schematic diagrams illustrating the power module of FIG. 39 for providing power to the backplane of FIGS.40-42.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 illustrates a microsurgical control system, generally designated1, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown, thesystem1 includes acomputer unit3 having aflat panel display5, abase unit7 housing a plurality ofmodules13, and peripherals such as afoot control assembly15 and a motorized intravenous (IV) pole assembly17 (each of which is generally indicated by its respective reference numeral). Each of themodules13 housed in thebase unit7 controls at least one ophthalmicmicrosurgical instrument19 for use by a surgeon in performing various ophthalmic surgical procedures. As is well known in the art, ophthalmic microsurgery involves the use of a number ofdifferent instruments19 for performing different functions. Theseinstruments19 include vitrectomy cutters, phacoemulsification or phacofragmentation handpieces, electric microscissors, fiber optic illumination instruments, coagulation handpieces and other microsurgical instruments known in the art. To optimize performance ofinstruments19 during surgery, their operating parameters differ according to, for example, the particular procedure being performed, the different stages of the procedure, the surgeon's personal preferences, whether the procedure is being performed in the anterior or posterior portion of the patient's eye, and so on.

As shown in FIG. 1, an instrumentation cart, generally designated21, supportssystem1. Preferably, thecart21 includes a surgical, or Mayo,tray25, the automatedIV pole assembly17, astorage compartment27 for stowing thefoot control assembly15, disposable packs and other items, anopening33 to house an expansion base unit (not shown in FIG.1), and rotatingcasters35.Base unit7 andcomputer unit3 preferably sit on top ofinstrumentation cart21 as shown in FIG.1 and theMayo tray25 is mounted on an articulating arm (not shown) preferably attached to the top ofinstrumentation cart21, directly beneathbase unit7.Instrumentation cart21 also holds a remote control transmitter, generally indicated39, for use in remotely controllingsystem1.

According to the invention, themodules13 inbase unit7 house control circuits for the variousmicrosurgical instruments19 so that the system's user is able to configuresystem1 for optimizing its use by the surgeon. As will be described in detail below,modules13 include connections or ports by which one or moremicrosurgical instruments19 connect to eachmodule13 and house the necessary control circuitry for controlling operation of the particular instrument orinstruments19 connected thereto. Thus, the user, by inserting the desiredmodules13 inbase unit7, configuressystem1 to meet a particular surgeon's preference, to control each of theinstruments19 needed for a particular surgical procedure, or to otherwise optimizesystem1 for use by the surgeon.

As will be described in detail below,foot control assembly15 andIV pole assembly17 include electronic control circuits for controlling their operation.

To support user-configurability,computer unit3, each of themodules13, and the control circuits for each of the peripherals, namely,foot control assembly15 andIV pole assembly17, constitute nodes on a computer network. The computer network provides power distribution and peer-to-peer data communication between the nodes.

Referring now to the block diagram of FIG. 2,base unit7 includes a number ofmodules13 which control variousmicrosurgical instruments19 typically used in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. In a preferred embodiment, eachmodule13 controls one or moresurgical instruments19 connected to it. A power bus and a data communications bus, each positioned on a backplane101 (shown in detail in FIGS.5 and40-42), connectmodules13 to each other. When received bybase unit7,modules13 engage thebackplane101 via a connector (e.g.,connector171 in FIG. 10) at the rear of eachmodule13. When engaged,backplane101 provides power distribution betweenmodules13 as well as data communication betweenmodules13 and betweenmodules13 andcomputer unit3. According to the invention,modules13 also include apower module103 housed bybase unit7 which is connected to both an external AC power source andbackplane101. Thepower module103 provides power tobackplane101 and, thus, provides power tosystem1.

According to the invention, a control circuit105 (see FIGS. 37,126-136) controlsfoot control assembly15 and a control circuit107 (see FIGS.38 and137-146) controlsIV pole assembly17. As described above,computer unit3, eachmodule13 and thecontrol circuits105,107 for the peripherals constitute nodes on a computer network. The computer network provides peer-to-peer data communication between the nodes. In other words, eachmodule13 is able to communicate directly with theother modules13, the peripherals andcomputer unit3. As such,system1 provides modular control of severaldifferent instruments19 as well as user-configurability.

Referring now to FIG. 3, thebase unit7 forms a rack having positions or slots for receiving a plurality ofmodules13 which electronically control the operation ofsurgical instruments19 used by a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. Preferably, thebase unit7 includes a chassis (generally designated109), atop cover111 having the shape of an inverted channel, and a front cover orbezel113 which may be removed as shown in FIG. 4 for inserting and removingmodules13. When thefront cover113 is fastened in place, therearward wall115 of the cover holds the modules in place within thebase unit7 thereby forming a retainer for retaining the modules in the rack. Thefront cover113 is held in place by two fasteners (not shown) screwed into threadedholes117 in the front of thechassis109. In the alternative,front cover113 clips in place. Thetop cover111 includes fourcircular receptacles119 for receiving feet on the bottom ofcomputer unit3. Each of thesereceptacles119 is tapered to conform to the shape of the computer unit feet and to center the feet in the receptacles.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, thechassis109 comprises arear panel121 integrally formed with abottom panel123. Thebottom panel123 extends perpendicular to the front plane (i.e., the front surface) of thebackplane101 which is fastened to therear panel121 withfasteners125. Ten 18-pin femaleelectrical connectors127 are provided on the front surface of thebackplane101. The threeleft-most connectors127 as shown in FIG. 5 are spaced at three inch intervals, and the remainingconnectors127 are spaced at 1.5 inch intervals. Each socket of eachconnector127 is connected in parallel to the similarly positioned sockets of the other connectors thereby forming the aforementioned power and data communications buses.Louvers131 are provided in therear panel121 above thebackplane101 for permitting air to escape from the base unit7 (FIG.5). A generallyrectangular opening133 extends through therear panel121 below thebackplane101 to provide access for a 3-prong connector on the back of thepower module103 as will be explained below. Similarly, acircular opening135 is provided in therear panel121 for accepting a pneumatic quick disconnect coupling (not shown) on the back of an irrigation/aspiration/vitrectomy (IAV) (e.g.,module321 in FIGS.32 and43-60). Thirteen parallel rails, each generally designated by137, are attached to thebottom panel123 by fasteners139 (FIG.6). Therails137 are evenly spaced at 1.5 inch intervals and extend perpendicular to the front of thebackplane101. One or more of therails137 is used to guide themodules13 into position in thebase unit7 so they are properly aligned for connection with thebackplane101. As shown in FIG. 14, each of therails137 has an I-shaped cross-section comprising upper and lower horizontal flanges (141,143, respectively) joined by avertical web145.

Turning to FIG. 5, fourfeet141 extend down from thebottom panel123 and are sized to seat in depressions (not shown) molded in thecart21. As shown in FIG. 6, anintake grating153 is provided in thebottom panel123 for permitting air to enter thebase unit7 to cool themodules13. FIG. 7 shows two circular 9-pin femaleelectrical connectors157 mounted on the back face of therear panel121. Each of theseconnectors157 is connected in parallel to the data communications bus on thebackplane101 to communicate with peripherals such as the cart21 (including IV pole assembly17), thecomputer unit3 or thefoot control assembly15. Theconnectors157 may also be used to connectbase unit7 to a separate expansion base unit as will be explained in detail below. Although other connectors are envisioned as being within the scope of the present invention, the connectors of the preferred embodiment are Series 703 electrical connectors sold by Amphenol Corporation of Wallingford, Conn.

FIGS. 9-11 illustrateexemplary modules13 for electronically controlling the operation ofsurgical instruments19 used by a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures. The exemplary module shown in FIG. 9 is thepower module103 for supplying power to the power bus of thebackplane101. Each of themodules13 comprises acase161 formed from aluminum sheet and a molded plasticfront cover163. As shown in FIG. 12,certain modules13 have one or more ports provided in theirfront covers163 for connecting various surgical instruments (not shown) to the modules. Thepower module103 illustrated in FIG. 9 is three inches wide. Other modules have other widths which are multiples of 1.5 inches (e.g., 1.5 inches or 4.5 inches). Each of themodules13 has a green light emitting diode (LED)165, or other visual indicator, mounted on thefront cover163 to indicate when the module is active.

Turning to FIG. 10, eachmodule13 includes an 18-pin maleelectrical connector171 adapted to connect to any of thefemale connectors127 mounted on thebackplane101. Theconnector171 is recessed in thecase161 to protect the connector and to maximize the space provided within thebase unit7. A coolingfan173 is positioned adjacent anexhaust port175 provided in the rearward face of themodule case161 above the 18-pin connector171 for exhausting air from thecase161 to cool components within themodule13.

Referring to FIG. 11, arecess177 is formed in the bottom of thefront cover163 for gripping themodule13 to slide it into and out of thebase unit7. Anopening179 is provided in the bottom of themodule case161 to permit air to enter the module when thefan173 is energized to cool components housed within themodule13. One ormore slots181 are formed in thebottom wall183 of eachmodule case161. Each of theseslots181 extends from arear wall185 of thecase161 and is configured to receive one of the guide rails139 on thebottom panel123 of thebase unit chassis109 to guide themodule13 and align itsconnector171 with the correspondingconnector127 on thebackplane101. Thus, therails137 andslots181 form a guide for guiding each of themodules13 into the rack so therespective module connector127 is aligned for connection to the bus.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, achannel187 is tack welded to thebottom wall183 of themodule case161 above eachslot181 to prevent debris from entering the case through theslots181 and to shield the electronic components housed within the case from electromagnetic interference. When themodules13 are introduced into thebase unit7, each of the base unit rails137 is received in arespective slot181 andchannel187 in the manner shown in FIG. 14, that is, with the upperhorizontal flange141 slidable in thechannel187 and theweb145 slidable in theslot181 therebelow. The interengagement between theweb145 and theslot181 and between theupper flange141 and the casebottom wall183 holds themodule13 in position in thebase unit7 and prevents the module from substantially moving perpendicular to therails137 in either the vertical or horizontal directions.

However, therails137 andslots181 are sized to permit some movement (e.g. {fraction (1/16)} inch) between themodule13 andbase unit7 so the pins of themodule connector171 can properly align with the sockets of thebackplane connector127. Theconnectors127,171 are tapered to guide the pins into the sockets even though the connectors are initially out of alignment by some amount (e.g., 0.1 inch). Even though the rails and slots are dimensioned to allow some movement, they do not permit any more misalignment than the connectors will tolerate. Therefore, therails137 andslots181 adequately provide for piece-part tolerances, but guide each of themodules13 into the rack so therespective module connector127 is aligned for connection to the bus.

Portions of thebottom wall183 of themodule case161 adjacent each slot are engageable with the top of thelower flange 143 of arespective rail137 to space thecase161 from thebase unit chassis109 and minimize metal-to-metal contact between themodules13 andbase unit7. Although twoslots181 are present in theexemplary module13 shown in FIG. 11, one or more slots may be present in other modules depending upon their widths. For instance, 1.5 inchwide modules13 have oneslot181 and 4.5 inch wide modules have three slots.

When themodule13 is installed in thebase unit7, theexhaust port175 andfan173 align with thelouvers131 in the base unitrear panel121 as shown in FIG. 13 to freely vent air from the module when the cooling fan is energized. Similarly, theintake opening179 of the module aligns with the grating153 in the base unitbottom panel123 to allow air to enter themodule13 from outside thebase unit7.

Eachmodule13 also provides overcurrent protection to ensure that a single module failure does not damage other parts of thesystem1.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 12, thefront cover163 of eachmodule13 includesbeveled surfaces191 extending rearwardly from thefront surface193 along opposite sides of the front surface. The bevelled surfaces191 are convergent with respect to one another toward thefront surface193 so that when themodule13 is placed in thebase unit7 beside another module, with a bevelled surface of one module adjacent a bevelled surface of the other module, the generally planar front surfaces of the adjacent modules are laterally spaced from one another by a distance D. The lateral spacing between the module front surfaces reduces the “noticeability” of any misalignment between thefront surfaces193 of adjacent modules. Thus, greater piece part. tolerances are permitted without detracting from the appearance of thesystem1.

As previously explained, themodule connectors171 connect to theconnectors127 on thebackplane101 when themodules13 are installed in thebase unit7. When the male and female connectors are connected, appropriate circuits within themodule13 are connected to the power and data communications buses in thebackplane101. Regardless of the position of themodule13 within thebase unit7, the same module circuits connect to the same circuits of the power and data communications buses. Thus, themodules13 are generally interchangeable and may be ordered in any sequence within thebase unit7. Further, because eachmodule13 is separately controlled, only those modules which control instruments necessary for a particular surgical procedure need be installed in thebase unit7. Therefore, the previously described rack is configured to receive themodules13 in a plurality of different positions along the power and data communications buses so that they are selectively organizable in a plurality of different sequences in the rack.

However, thepower module103 has a dedicated location within thebase unit7 so it may be conveniently connected to the external power source through therectangular opening133 in the base unitrear panel121. Because thepower module103 is3 inches wide, the spacing between the twoleft-most connectors127 as shown in FIG. 5 is three inches. The spacing between the second and third connectors from the left as shown in FIG. 5 permit either a three or 4.5 inch wide module to be inserted next to thepower module103. If an IAV (e.g.,module321 in FIGS.32 and43-60) is used, it must be installed over the threeright-most rails137 as shown in FIG.5. As previously mentioned, a pneumatic quick disconnect coupling protrudes from the back of theIAV module321. TheIAV module321 can only be installed in the right-most position because the coupling must extend through thecircular opening135 in therear panel121 of thebase unit7. If an IAV module is not being used, any other module (besides a power module) may be installed in the right-most position. With the exceptions noted above, themodules13 are fully interchangeable and may be installed in any order as desired. Thus, thebase unit7 is configured so themodules13 may be received in a plurality of different positions within the rack and so they are selectively organizable in a plurality of different sequences in the rack. All themodules13 are capable of being installed into or removed frombase unit7 quickly from the front without the aid of any tools due to their modular construction and the releasable engagement of thebackplane101. This quick installation and removal facilitates convenient maintenance or replacement of modules. For example, if aparticular module13 needs repair, it can be easily removed and shipped to a repair facility. During repair, another module may be used in its place or thesystem1 can be operated without theparticular module13.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 8, apost195 extends from the rear face of thefront cover113 of thebase unit7. Thepost195 is positioned on the front cover so it engages a opening197 (FIG. 9) in thepower module103 when the cover is installed on the base unit with themodules13 installed. An interlock switch (e.g.,interlock switch783 in FIG. 39) located behind theopening197 in thepower supply module103 interrupts power to each ofmodules13 upon removal of the baseunit front cover113. Thus, users cannot contact thebackplane101 when it is energized. Further, the particular configuration of modules in the rack is checked during each start-up (as explained below with respect to FIG.31), and cannot be changed without removing thefront cover113. By interrupting power when thecover113 is removed, the configuration of themodules13 cannot be changed without being detected.

Referring to FIG. 2, thesystem1 may further include an expansion connector203 (see FIG. 16) for connecting thebase unit7 to an optionalexpansion base unit207 thereby to expand the network. Physically and functionally, theexpansion base unit207 is substantially identical tobase unit7. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the user can expand the network and, thus, expand the operating capabilities of thesystem1, by connecting either 9-pin connector157 on therear panel121 of thebase unit7 to the similar connector on theexpansion base unit207 with theexpansion connector203. Theexpansion base unit207 of the preferred embodiment includes itsown power module211. Therefore, theexpansion connector203 connects the data communication buses of the units, but not the power buses. However, it is envisioned that a single power module could supply both units without departing from the scope of the present invention. When a single power module is used, power is provided to theexpansion base unit207 via theexpansion connector203 by connecting the power bus on thebackplane101 of thebase unit7 to the power bus on thebackplane209 of theexpansion base unit207.

Referring now to FIG. 15, the data communications bus preferably comprises atwisted pair cable215 having afirst wire217 and asecond wire219. In one preferred embodiment, the computer network linking each of the components ofsystem1 is of the type sold by Echelon Corporation under the trademark LONTALK® utilizing an RS485 communications protocol. The RS485 standard provides a platform for multi-point data transmission over a balanced twisted pair transmission line. Eachmodule13 includes anRS485 transceiver223 for receiving data from and transmitting data to the data communications bus and aprocessor225 coupled to thetransceiver223. Motorola manufactures asuitable processor225 designated NEURON® chip Model No. MC143150 and National Semiconductor manufactures asuitable transceiver223 designated chip Model No. 75156.

The data communications bus, thetransceivers223 and theprocessors225 together form the communications network by whichmodules13,computer unit3, thecontrol circuit105 offoot control assembly15 and thecontrol circuit107 ofIV pole assembly17 communicate with each other. Through the use of the network,system1 provides peer-to-peer communication between its components.

In such a network,processor225 is also referred to herein as a “neuron” or “neuron processor” (NEURON® is a registered trademark of Echelon Corporation). Eachneuron processor225 preferably comprises three 8-bit on-board processors. Two of the three on-board processors implement a communication subsystem, enabling the transfer of information from node to node on the network. The third on-board processor executes an embedded application program. Thus, in addition to functioning as communication processors,neuron processors225 controlmicrosurgical instruments19 connected thereto. Preferably, theneuron processors225 ofmodules13 receive the data communicated via the data communications bus and, in response to the data, generate control signals to controlmicrosurgical instruments19.

As shown,transceivers223 tap into the first andsecond wires217,219 oftwisted pair cable215. In one preferred embodiment of the invention,twisted pair cable215 is positioned on backplane101 (i.e., as traces on backplane101). Thus, when theconnectors171 at the rear ofmodules13 engagebackplane101, they tap into twistedpair cable215. As described above in reference to FIG. 5,backplane101 also includes a pair of additionaldata cable connectors157 for connecting data cables tobackplane101. The data cables include twisted pair cable and extend the data communications bus frombackplane101 tocomputer unit3 and to the peripherals. For example, one data cable runs from onedata cable connector157 tocomputer unit3 and another data cable runs from the otherdata cable connectors157 to eitherfoot control assembly15 directly or toIV pole assembly17 andfoot control assembly17 viainstrumentation cart21.

According to the RS485 protocol, each end oftwisted pair cable215 must be terminated by a resistance, such as a 120 Ω resistor. However, the need for a termination makes it difficult to expand the network. Advantageously, the present invention provides atermination circuit229, shown in FIG. 16, located at one end oftwisted pair cable215 for selectively terminating the network by a 120 ohm resistor and allowing for easy expansion of the network.

FIG. 16 illustrates thetermination circuit229 for selectively terminating the data communications bus. As shown, the data communications bus (i.e., twisted pair cable215) is represented by RS485-HI and RS485-LO lines. Preferably,termination circuit229 is part ofexpansion connector203 and is connected in series between the ends of the first andsecond wires217,219 of the firsttwisted pair cable215. In one embodiment,termination circuit229 comprises a normally closedswitch231 connected in series with the 120 ohm resistance for terminating the data communications bus. In order to expand the network, the user connects anexpansion cable233 having a secondtwisted pair cable235 associated withexpansion base unit207 toexpansion connector203. As with the firsttwisted pair cable215, the secondtwisted pair cable235 has afirst wire237 and asecond wire239 provided for connection totermination circuit229. According to the invention, secondtwisted pair235 is positioned onbackplane209 and constitutes the data communications bus forexpansion unit207.

Termination circuit229 also includes acoil243 connected to a positive voltage supply. When the user connectsexpansion cable233 associated withexpansion base unit207 toexpansion connector203, thecoil243 is shorted to ground. As a result, the positive voltage energizescoil243 which in turn opens the normally closedswitch231. Thus, when the ends of the first andsecond wires217,219 of firsttwisted pair cable215 are connected to the ends of the first andsecond wires237,239 of secondtwisted pair cable235, respectively,switch231 opens to remove the termination. The termination is then found at the other end ofexpansion base unit207. In a preferred embodiment, either theexpansion cable233 or thebackplane209 ofexpansion base unit207 also includestermination circuit229.

FIG. 16 also shows lines labeled RESET-HI and RESET-LO. Preferably,computer unit3 communicates a reset signal via the data communications bus to themodules13 installed inbase unit7 viabackplane101 and to themodules13 installed inexpansion base unit207 viabackplane209.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention,expansion base unit207 includes itsown power module211 As such, power is not distributed betweenbase unit7 andexpansion base unit207. In the alternative, the power bus may also be positioned onbackplanes101,209 for distributing power frompower module103 to each of themodules13 ofsystem1 which are located in eitherbase unit7 orexpansion base unit207.

Referring now to the block diagram of FIGS. 17-18,computer unit3 comprises an embeddedcentral processing computer245, at least onedisk drive247 and an internalhard drive249. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, thecentral processor245 ofcomputer unit3 is an IBM compatible microprocessor-based board including, for example, an Intel 486® or Pentium® processor, and having an industry standard AT motherboard. Thedisk drive247 is a conventional 3.5 inch, 1.44 MB floppy drive and thehard drive249 is a conventional IDE 3.5 inch internal hard drive having at least 250 MB of memory. In an alternative embodiment,computer unit3 includes a CD-ROM drive251 in addition tofloppy drive247.Computer unit3 also includes theflat panel display5, a touch-responsive screen255 for use withflat panel display5 and various multimedia hardware accessories such as a video board, ordisplay driver259, asound board261 andspeakers263. Advantageously, each of the various expansion boards ofcomputer unit3 are compatible with standard PC architectures.

Computer unit3 constitutes a user interface by which the user (such as a surgeon, medical technician or assistant) receives information representative of the various operating parameters ofmicrosurgical instruments19 and peripherals which provide the different functions needed to perform the surgical procedures. The user also provides information tosystem1 via a graphical user interface provided bycomputer unit3. Advantageously, thehard drive249 ofcomputer unit3 stores programmable operating parameters for each of themicrosurgical instruments19 and peripherals. By providing information tocentral processor245 via the user interface, the user is able to reprogram or select from the operating parameters stored inhard drive249.Computer unit3 then communicates the operating parameters tomodules13 as well as to footassembly15 andIV pole assembly17 via thebackplane101 and external data cables and its network. In this manner, the user is able to optimize the performance ofinstruments19 during surgery.

In one embodiment, the user stores data representative of a plurality of operating parameters on a removable memory, such as a floppy disk, for use with thedisk drive247 ofcomputer unit3. In this embodiment, thecentral processor245 ofcomputer unit3 defines a set of operating parameters for themicrosurgical instruments19 and peripherals based on the data stored in the removable memory. For example, the set of operating parameters defined bycentral processor245 comprise an individualized set of surgeon-selected operating parameters. Similarly, thehard drive249 ofcomputer unit3 stores default operating parameters which may be adapted to approximate the individualized set of parameters provided by the user.

As an example, operating parameters define one or more of the following for use in controlling the various instruments19: a linearly variable scissors cut rate; a fixed scissors cut rate; a single actuation scissors cut; a proportional actuation scissors closure level; an air/fluid pressure; an air/fluid flow rate; a linearly variable bipolar power level; a fixed bipolar power level; an illumination intensity level; an aspiration vacuum pressure level; an aspiration flow rate; a linearly variable vitrectomy cut rate; a fixed vitrectomy cut rate; a single actuation vitrectomy cut; a phacoemulsification power level; a phacofragmentation power level; a phacoemulsification pulse rate; and a phacofragmentation pulse rate.

Thecontrol circuits105,107 of the peripherals also form nodes on the computer network and operate as a function of at least one operating parameter. In the above example, the operating parameters also define one or more of following for the peripherals: a plurality of foot control pitch detent levels; and an intravenous pole height.

Referring further to FIGS. 17-18,computer unit3 also includes an infrared (IR)receiver circuit267 for receiving IR signals from the hand-heldremote control39. The IR signals preferably represent commands for controlling operation ofsystem1. As an example,remote control39 is a wireless infrared transmitter similar in size and appearance to a standard television or video cassette recorder remote. The unit provides line of sight operation and preferably uses a transmitter/receiver encoding scheme to minimize the risk of interference from other infrared transmitters and/or receivers. In terms of function, the keypad ofremote control39 preferably includes control buttons for varying the levels of aspiration, bipolar coagulation power and ultrasound power (for phacoemulsification and phacofragmentation) as well as for varying the IV pole height, turning on and off the illumination instrument and varying the intensity level of the light provided by the illumination instrument. In one preferred embodiment,remote control39 also includes control buttons for proceeding to the next mode and for returning to the previous mode in a predefined sequence of operational modes.

In addition,computer unit3 includes anetwork board271 designed specifically for use inmicrosurgical system1. This applicationspecific network board271 includestransceiver223 andneuron processor225 for connectingcomputer unit3 to the network. Preferably,network board271 is used to interfacecentral processor245 with the touch-responsive screen255 and theIR receiver267 as well assurgical modules13,foot control assembly15 andIV pole assembly17.

In one preferred embodiment, thecentral processor245 ofcomputer unit3 cooperates with each of theneuron processors225 of the individual control circuits ofmodules13,foot control assembly15 and/orIV pole assembly17 to execute software in a two-tier software hierarchy. The first tier of the software hierarchy is the user interface which provides an interface between the user (i.e., the surgical team) andmicrosurgical system1 of the invention. As used herein, the term “user interface” refers generally tocomputer unit3 and specifically to the routines executed bycomputer unit3 to generate a series of functional screen displays which enable the user to interface withsystem1.

The user interface displays operating parameters and their settings as well as other conditions onflat panel display5. The user interface also receives input from touch-responsive screen255,foot control assembly15 or IRremote control39 to tailor the operation ofsystem1 to the surgeon's current surgical procedure. Preferably, the user interface is a Microsoft® Windows '95 based environment providing a highly graphical, user friendly operating environment which generates icons, symbols, and the like. As a result, the user interface simplifies the use ofsystem1 and is particularly well-suited for use with touch-responsive screen255.

The second tier of the system software is an embedded control environment used bymodules13,control circuit105 andcontrol circuit107. As described above, each component ofsystem1 forms part of a computer network such that the user interface communicates with the embedded software via a predetermined communication architecture such as the communication architecture Echelon LONTALK®.

The use of embedded software programs bymodules13 and the peripherals provides distributed control ofsystem1. In other words, each of themodules13 and peripherals operate independently of theother modules13 and peripherals while still being linked by the network. Thus, the failure of one component will not affect the functionality of the other components ofsystem1. In addition to embedded control software, eachmodule13 and peripheral incorporates built-in-tests so that specific failures can be identified and reported tocomputer unit3 and, thus, be reported to the user. The operational status of eachmodule13 and peripheral is continually checked during operation through the use of a software watchdog timer (e.g., seewatchdog timer475 in FIG.32).

According to the invention,computer unit3 is especially well-suited for use in a modular system such assystem1.Hard drive249 stores the various programs foroperating system1, including the programs normally resident inmodules13. In the event that a program resident in one ofmodules13 becomes corrupted or in need of an update, the user may download the appropriate resident program fromhard drive249 tomodule13 via the network thereby facilitating its reprogramming.Floppy drive247 also allows the user to install software updates or application specific software for use with new modules based on this product. In this manner, the software ofsystem1 follows a modular approach which parallels the modular design of the hardware. Additionally, the user may save, load and transport user settings fromsystem1 to another like microsurgical system at a different location through the use offloppy drive247.

Computer unit3 employssound board261 andspeakers263 to generate audio signals for warning messages, alarms or other audible indications. In addition,sound board261 andspeakers263 cooperate with thevideo board259 and the CD-ROM drive251 to provide audio/visual, or multimedia, presentations such as animated on-line service and instruction manuals, operational demonstrations, and the like in a number of different languages.

Flat panel display5 and touch-responsive screen255 are the primary means of interface betweensystem1 and the user. In one embodiment,flat panel display5 is an active matrix liquid crystal display (LCD) (10.4″ diagonal, VGA resolution, active matrix LCD, 256 colors) overlaid by touch-responsive screen255. Preferably, touch-responsive screen255 is an analog resistive touch screen which is chemically resistant to common sterilizing solutions and housed in a watertight bezel.

Preferably,computer unit3 also includes aseparate power supply275. In the alternative, the power module 10:3 ofbase unit7 provides power tocomputer unit3.

FIG. 19 illustrates the applicationspecific network board271 ofcomputer unit3. As illustrated,network board271 includes an RS485network connector circuit277 as well as a network manager/controller circuit279 and anRS485 termination circuit281. Advantageously, thecircuits277,279,281 provide a network interface forcomputer unit3 to communicate via the data communications bus.Network board271 further includes anISA bus connector283, anISA bus transceiver285 and an ISAbus interface circuit287, such as an electronically programmable logic device (EPLD). Thecircuit283,285,287 provide an interface betweennetwork board271 andcentral processor245.

In addition,network board271 provides circuit connections and interfaces for touch-responsive screen215,flat panel display5 and IRremote control39. In this instance,network board271 includes a touchscreen controller/encoder289 connected tocentral processor245 via aserial connector291 and connected toflat panel display5 via a flex-circuit connector293. The flex-circuit connector293 also connects abacklight brightness control295 toflat panel display5 and connects theIR receiver267 to an IRremote decoder circuit297.Network board271 also includes abrightness control connector299 for use with an encoder knob (not shown) oncomputer unit3 by which the user controls the intensity offlat panel display5. In this instance,remote control39 also provides a means for varying the display intensity so the input received at the brightness control connector is routed through the IRremote decoder297 to thebus interface circuit287. In turn,bus interface circuit287 provides the necessary control signals to thebrightness control295 for varying the intensity offlat panel display5.

As shown in FIG. 19,network board271 further includes a watchdog timer and resetcircuit301 in a preferred embodiment of the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 20, thetermination circuit281 is shown in schematic diagram form. In addition totermination circuit229 associated with theexpansion connector203 ofbase unit7,network board271 providestermination circuit281 for selectively terminating the computer unit end of the data communications bus. In this instance,termination circuit281 comprises a normally closedswitch303 connected in series with an approximately 120 ohm resistance. In order to expand the network at this end (as opposed to the end of expansion connector203), the user connects an expansion cable (not shown) from a peripheral to either afirst jumper305 or asecond jumper307. Thejumpers303,305 preferably provide means for connecting additional peripherals to the network ofsystem1. For example, the user can connectfoot control assembly15 or some other peripheral to the network via a connector (not shown) associated with eitherjumper305,307 instead of viaconnector157.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the expansion cables from the peripherals that are to be connected to the network short a pair of termination switch pins onjumpers305,307. In this instance, a peripheral expansion cable connected tojumper305 causes a short circuit betweenTERM SWITCH1A andTERM SWITCH1B. Likewise, a peripheral expansion cable connected tojumper307 causes a short circuit between TERM SWITCH2A and TERM SWITCH2B. As shown in FIG. 20,termination circuit281 also includes acoil309 connected to a positive voltage supply. In a preferred embodiment, thecoil309 is shorted to ground and, thus, energized when bothTERM SWITCH1A and1B and TERM SWITCH2A and2B are shorted. As a result ofcoil309 being energized, the normally closedswitch303 opens to remove the termination. The termination is then found at the peripheral end of the data communications bus.

FIG. 21 illustrates data flow insystem1 according to one preferred embodiment of the invention. Preferably, eachmodule13 installed inbase unit7 controls one or moremicrosurgical instruments19 for providing several different surgical functions. For example,instruments19 provide intraocular pressure (IOP), scissors cutting, forceps control, ultrasound (e.g., for phacoemulsification or phacofragmentation), irrigation, aspiration, vitrectomy cutting, bipolar coagulation and/or illumination. In an exemplary setup ofsystem1,modules13 include aventuri IAV module321 and ascroll IAV module323, both of which control irrigation, aspiration and vitrectomy functions ofsystem1. Theventuri IAV module321 is for use with a venturi pump whereas thescroll IAV module323 is for use with a scroll pump.Modules13 also include aphaco module325 controlling phacoemulsification and phacofragmentation functions and ascissors module327 controlling a scissors cutting function. In addition, thescissors module327 also controls a forceps function and includes air/fluid exchange control circuitry for controlling an IOP function. As shown in FIG. 21,modules13 further include acoagulation module329 controlling a bipolar coagulation function and anillumination module331 controlling an illumination function.

This embodiment of the invention also includesfoot control circuit105 and IVpole control circuit107 as peripherals connected to the network ofsystem1. Advantageously,venturi IAV module321,scroll IAV module323,phaco module325,scissors module327,coagulation module329 andillumination module331 as well as thecontrol circuits105,107 forfoot control assembly15 andIV pole assembly17, respectively, each constitute nodes on the network.

As described above, the user either programs the operating parameters, selects them from a set of default operating parameters or inputs them directly from the user interface to optimize performance of the surgery. As shown in the exemplary system setup of FIG. 21,computer unit3 in turn communicates the operating parameters tomodules13 vialine335. Eachactive module13 then provides control signals as a function of at least one of the user-entered or default operating parameters for controlling the microsurgical instrument orinstruments19 connected thereto. In addition,computer unit3 provides on/off control of a number ofinstruments19 andIV pole assembly17 vialine337 and receives feedback regarding their operational status vialine339. Thecontrol circuit105 offoot control assembly15 provides both linear control (e.g., by its foot pedal) vialine341 and discrete control (e.g., by its push-buttons) vialine343 of thevarious modules13. Further, with its programmable function button,foot control assembly15 also provides control ofsystem1 based on instructions fromcomputer unit3. It is to be understood that the data communications bus of the invention carries the data communicated bylines335,337,339,341 and343. Preferably, the data communications bus is a bi-directional serial bus which carries all types of signals. Thus, thelines335,337,339,341,343 represent data flow insystem1 but do not represent the data communications bus.

In addition, the network ofsystem1 provides peer-to-peer communication between its nodes. For example, it may be desirable to disable the user interface whenfoot control assembly15 is engaged. In other words, the user is prevented from changing the operating parameters ofinstruments19 when the surgeon is usingfoot control assembly15 to remotely controlinstruments19. In this instance,foot control assembly15 communicates via the network directly with the user interface and theother modules13 to provide peer-to-peer communication. Similarly, it may be desirable to preventcertain instruments19 from operating simultaneously for safety reasons. For example, the phacoemulsification instrument is disabled by the bipolar coagulation instrument when the latter is being used and vice-versa. In contrast, the aspiration function is needed during phacoemulsification or phacofragmentation. Thus, information regarding both functions is communicated via the network between thephaco module325 and eitherventuri IAV module321 orscroll IAV module323.

Referring now to an example of the user interface's operation, an opening screen display at start-up allows the user to select the various surgical functions available for either the anterior or posterior portions of the patient's eye or to select a utilities program forprogramming system1 or for performing other setup functions. When the user selects either the anterior portion or the posterior portion,computer unit3 preferably displays a surgeon selection menu onflat panel display5. According to the invention,hard drive249 stores an individualized set of initial operating parameters for each surgeon listed on the menu. In response to the user's selections,computer unit3 sets the operating portion to either anterior or posterior with the appropriate set of initial operating parameters depending on the user's selections. If a particular surgeon is not listed on the menu,computer unit3 sets the operating portion to either anterior or posterior with the default operating parameters. If desired, the surgeon may then change the operating parameters from their default values.

Further to the example,computer unit3 displays a utilities screen onflat panel display5 when the user selects the utilities option from the opening screen. In this instance,computer unit3 sets the operating mode to “none”. The utilities program allows the user to modify the various system settings (e.g., modify or add new surgeons to the surgeon selection menu, modify initial operating parameters previously saved or add new initial operating parameters, and access user help information).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the user interface establishes dedicated portions of touch-responsive screen255 for different selection or information windows. For example, primary windows are generated for displaying aspiration, phacoemulsification, phacofragmentation, vitrectomy, scissors and linear coagulation functions. Secondary windows are then available to the user for displaying non-linear coagulation, IOP, illumination, IV pole and the foot control configuration functions. Preferably, the user interface also employs a series of selection tabs (see FIG. 27) which allow the user to select the current operating mode ofsystem1, activate or deactivate surgical functions (e.g., coagulation), display on-line help and to exitsystem1. If needed, the user selection tabs also include multiple choices for one or more of the selections and expand to display these additional selections.

During operation, the user may customize the different operating parameters to meet a surgeon's particular preferences through the use of a surgical function interface of the user interface. In general, the surgical function interface uses a number of displays to represent the various microsurgical system functions (e.g., venturi vacuum, scroll vacuum, vitrectomy, ultrasound, coagulation, scissors cutting, illumination and so forth) which are active. In a preferred embodiment, the surgical function interface displays current operating parameters numerically or graphically, displays operating set points and/or displays the on or off status of the various functions. Thecentral processor245 ofcomputer unit3 also executes routines to generate various control icons for use in adjusting the different operating parameters and/or for use in turning the functions on or off. For example, during performance of the venturi vacuum function, the interface provides a spin button, or up/down, control for incrementing or decrementing the current vacuum operating parameter. The interface also uses push-button controls for commanding a number of functions. For example, during performance of the aspiration function, the surgeon typically primes the aspiration line before proceeding to first remove any air in the line. The priming function is preferably indicated on the screen by a push-button. In addition to spin button and push-button controls, the interface also utilizes progress bars for showing current operating parameters with respect to their preset minimum and maximum values. For example, if the ultrasound power level is at 20% of the maximum power level during phacofragmentation, a progress bar covers 20% of a window labeled 0% on its left edge and 100% on its right edge.

Referring now to FIG. 22,central processor245 preferably executes a calculator function interface in response to the user touching the portion of touch-responsive screen255 corresponding to the numerical display of one of the operating parameter values. The calculator function interface preferably causesflat panel display5 to display a numeric keypad, generally indicated347, as part of the touch-responsive screen255 for use in entering a desired value of the selected operating parameter rather than incrementing or decrementing the value via a spin button control. As such, the user may quickly and easily change the numerical surgical settings without repeatedly or continuously pressing the up or down arrow of the spin button control.

As shown in FIG. 22, the interface displays the particular value entered via thekeypad347 in awindow349 with a legend indicating the operating parameter being modified (e.g., the maximum vacuum setting).Keypad347 further includes a push-button351 for entering the default; or programmed maximum value, a push-button353 for entering the default or programmed minimum value and push-buttons355,357 for incrementing or decrementing the value, respectively. Preferably, the calculator function interface is disabled during operation offoot control assembly15 when performing an active operation.

In addition to the surgical function interfaces, the user interface provides programming function interfaces to represent the microsurgical system functions for use in programming mode settings. In the present embodiment, the user accesses the programming function interfaces via the utilities menu described above. The programming interfaces display operating set points and provide means for modifying the operating set points for a given operating mode, changing the functions from linear to fixed, or vice-versa, turning the functions on/off for a given operating mode and so forth.

According to the present invention,system1 is a mode-based surgical system. A mode is defined to be a surgical setup that includes the use of one or moresurgical instruments19 having specified initial operating parameters. Each of thesurgical instruments19 which are active in a particular mode perform one or more surgical functions. Although the terms “mode” and “function” are sometimes used interchangeably in commonly assigned patents, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,933,843, 5,157,603, 5,417,246 and 5,455,766, it is to be understood that these terms are distinct as used herein. For example, one phacoemulsification mode is defined such that an aspiration instrument provides the vacuum function and a phacoemulsification handpiece provides the ultrasound, or phacoemulsification, function and both of these instruments have specific initial operating parameters.

As described above, theflat panel display5 ofcomputer unit3 displays information to the user. In a preferred embodiment,flat panel display5 displays this information in the form of various on-screen menus of options available to the user. The menus may be in the form of lists, labeled push-buttons, user-selectable tabs and the like. The user selects one or more of the available options from the on-screen menu by touching a corresponding portion of touch-responsive screen255. One such display includes a menu of the selectable modes. Preferably, thehard drive249 ofcomputer unit3 stores operating parameters according to predefined surgical operating modes in the form of a collection of setup files. As described above, each mode is representative of one or more surgical procedures to be performed and defined by operation of at least one of themicrosurgical instruments19. Each mode determines whichinstruments19 are to be used in the particular mode as well as the operating parameters associated with those instruments. Advantageously, the user can modify or define the modes via the user interface.

FIG. 23 is a flow diagram illustrating the operation ofcomputer unit3 for providing operating modes according to the invention. Beginning atstep361,system1 first identifies and initializes each of themodules13 installed inbase unit7 at power-up. When the user makes an initial surgeon selection atstep363,central processor245 retrieves a particular setup file corresponding to the selected surgeon atstep365. According to one embodiment of the invention, the retrieved setup file comprises a mode database having a number of mode records, each being representative of a different mode and the operating parameters for the various surgical functions to be performed bysystem1 operating in that mode. The setup file may also include initial values for other operating parameters which are not part of the mode records such as audio levels or other mode-independent settings. The retrieved setup file also includes a mode sequence database which defines a sequence in which certain of the modes are to be provided. Atstep367,computer unit3 compares the identification information to the retrieved setup file to verify that thenecessary modules13 are present insystem1 for performing the desired surgical functions specified in the mode records of the mode database. If not,computer unit3 generates a translated setup file atstep369 by translating or substituting operating parameters for the operating parameters in the retrieved setup file so that it corresponds to theactual modules13 inbase unit7. If thenecessary modules13 are present insystem1, or ifcomputer unit3 has generated a translated setup file,computer unit3 determines that the setup file is acceptable atstep371.

In this manner,central processor245 retrieves a set of the operating parameters fromhard drive249 for the microsurgical instrument orinstruments19 to be used in a selected mode andsurgical modules13 control themicrosurgical instruments19 connected thereto as a function of the operating parameters retrieved from memory.

According to the invention, the mode interface also defines a sequence in which the modes are to be active. To simplify mode sequence operation, the on-screen menu also includes an option for either proceeding to the next mode in the sequence defined in the mode sequence database or returning to the previous mode in the sequence. This enables the surgeon to proceed from mode to mode by touching a single push-button on touch-responsive screen255. In the alternative, the surgeon can also proceed from mode to mode by depressing a particular button onfoot control assembly15 or by depressing a particular button on the hand-heldremote control39. In response to the user's instructions,central processor245 retrieves in sequence the set of operating parameters fromhard drive249 for themicrosurgical instruments19 to be used in the selected mode and then retrieves another set of the operating parameters fromhard drive249 for themicrosurgical instruments19 to be used in either the next or the previous mode in the predefined sequence depending on the user's instructions.

For example, if the mode database of a particular surgeon's setup file has records for several modes, the mode sequence database may only define a sequence for some of those modes. In particular, the mode sequence database may define a sequence in which the first mode defined in the mode database is to be followed by the third mode, then the ninth mode and then the seventh mode. In other words, there need not be a one-to-one correspondence between the mode records in the mode database and the modes listed in the mode sequence database.

FIG. 24 illustrates the mode sequencing operation ofcomputer unit3 in flow diagram form. Beginning atstep375, the user enters a mode sequence command via the user interface. As an example, the mode sequence command may be a command to proceed to the next mode in the sequence, to return to the preceding mode in the sequence or to return to the last mode performed. In response to the command, atstep377,computer unit3 identifies the mode record from the mode database which corresponds to the mode in the predefined sequence. Followingstep377,computer unit3 proceeds to step379 for instructing eachmodule13 and peripheral ofsystem1 of the user's desired mode change. Also atstep379,computer unit3 executes certain safety routines. For example, the surgeon is only permitted to change from mode to mode when the foot pedal offoot control assembly15 is inactive. An exception is made for the phacofragmentation, scissors and other modes which may be selected when the foot pedal offoot assembly15 is active if the irrigation function is operating to provide continuous irrigation.

Referring further to FIG. 24, computer unit also proceeds to step379 after receiving a new mode selection command atstep381. Followingstep379,computer unit3 reprograms the operating parameters of themicrosurgical instruments19 to be used in the selected operating mode atstep383. Atstep385,computer unit3 enables or disables the various display components so that the display onflat panel display5 corresponds to the surgical functions available in the selected mode. Followingstep385,computer unit3 enables each of themodules13 or peripherals to be used in the selected operating mode atstep387.

As an example, Table I, below, lists exemplary modes and the operating parameters associated with theinstruments19 to be used in each of the modes. In other words, Table I lists the mode records of an exemplary mode database.

TABLE I
Operating Modes Database

					Max
			Max	Phaco	U/S	IV Pole
		Aspiration	Vacuum	Func-	Power	Height
#	Mode	Function	(mmHg)	tion	(%)	(cm)
1	Open	linear	400	off	0	80
2	Emulsification-	fixed	75	linear	20	30
	Soft
3	Emulsification-	fixed	100	linear	30	35
	Med
4	Emulsification-	fixed	125	linear	50	40
	Hard
5	Clean	linear	200	off	0	55
6	Vitreous	linear	300	off	0	65
	Removal
7	Clean II	linear	300	off	0	65
8	Emulsification-	fixed	200	linear	20	50
	High Vac
9	Dual	linear	100	linear	30	50

Further to the example of Table I, the surgeon may define a mode sequence database via the user interface which includes only some of the nine modes. For example, the mode sequence database defines a sequence beginning with mode1 (open), followed by mode 3 (emulsification-medium), followed by mode 9 (dual) and ending with mode 7 (clean II).

As described above in connection with FIG. 23,computer unit3 compares the system identification information, built at power-up in the form of a hardware database, to the retrieved setup file. By doing so,computer unit3 is able to verify that thenecessary modules13 are present insystem1 for performing the desired surgical functions of the modes in the mode database. If not,computer unit3 generates a translated setup file by translating or substituting operating parameters for the operating parameters in the retrieved setup file so that it corresponds to theactual modules13 inbase unit7. FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate a preferred means for adapting the setup files according to the invention.

As shown in FIG. 25,computer unit3 first examines each mode record in the mode database atstep391. During initialization ofsystem1, described in detail below,computer unit3 reads a set of communications parameters corresponding to the hardware (i.e., thedifferent modules13 andcontrol circuits105,107) on the network. As described above, eachneuron processor225 of the various nodes on the network executes embedded programs for controlling the differentmicrosurgical instruments19 and peripherals. The communications parameters represent a unique identification label specific to eachprocessor225 which includes information regarding the type of device being controlled (e.g., vitrectomy handpiece or ultrasound device) and the version ofmodule13 or peripheral in which theprocessor225 is located. The identification label also includes a specific identifier (e.g., a serial number) which is unique to theparticular module13 orcontrol circuit105,107. As an example, the version of aparticular module13 may change as either the hardware or software is updated. According to the invention, the mode records in the mode database each represent a different operating mode and the operating parameters for the various surgical functions to be provided bysystem1 operating in that mode. As such, the operating parameters correspond to specific nodes on the network by both function and version.

Atstep393,computer unit3 determines if the type of hardware needed for each instrument or peripheral to used in the operating mode defined by the mode record is present insystem1. If so, atstep395,computer unit3 determines if the version information for eachmodule13 andperipheral control circuit105,107 matches the version information specified by the mode record. If the version information is correct,computer unit3 returns to step391 for examining the next mode record in the mode database. On the other hand, if the version information is incorrect,computer unit3 determines atstep397 if the version information for the installed hardware is compatible with the version information specified by the mode record. If compatible, computer unit proceeds to step399 in which it substitutes the operating parameters associated with the actual hardware ofsystem1 for the operating parameters set forth in the mode record. If the versions are not compatible,computer unit3 disallows the particular mode atstep401. Following either step399 or step401,computer unit3 returns to step391 for examining the next mode record in the mode database.

Atstep393,computer unit3 determines if hardware is present insystem1 for each instrument or peripheral to used in the operating mode defined by the mode record. If not,computer unit3 proceeds to step403 shown in the flow diagram of FIG.26. Atstep403,computer unit3 determines if the absent hardware is necessary to the operation ofsystem1 in the particular mode. If the absent hardware is not needed,computer unit3 deletes the reference to the absent hardware from the mode record atstep405 and then returns to step391 of FIG. 25 for proceeding to the next mode record. On the other hand, if the absent hardware is needed,computer unit3 determines atstep407 if substitute hardware is available. If not,computer unit3 deletes the mode record from the mode database atstep409 and then returns to step391 for proceeding to the next mode record. If substitute hardware is available,computer unit3 proceeds to step411. Atstep411,computer unit3 translates the operating parameters in the mode record to correspond to the substitute hardware. As an example, a particular setup ofsystem1 may includeventuri IAV module321 but not scrollIAV module323. In this instance, if a mode record specifies an operating mode providing the flow aspiration function, which is not available withventuri IAV module321,computer unit3 would substitute the flow aspiration operating parameters for vacuum operating parameters which would approximate a flow aspiration response.

Followingstep411,computer unit3 returns to step391. After adapting the mode records of the setup file,computer unit3 examines the mode sequence database of the retrieved setup file. If a mode in the mode sequence is no longer available (i.e., it was deleted at step409),computer unit3 also deletes the mode from the mode sequence database. In this manner,computer unit3 adapts the retrieved setup file for use with the particular configuration ofsystem1. In other words,computer unit3 generates a translated setup file.

The mode records shown above in Table I define particular modes in terms of the various procedures performed by the surgeon. For example, the surgeon selects the “open” mode when performing the procedure of opening the patient's eye. It is also contemplated that the operating modes ofsystem1 are defined in terms of the different surgical functions performed during these procedures. Tables II and III, below, list exemplary modes in the anterior and posterior portions in terms of the different surgical functions.

TABLE II
Anterior Operating Modes

		Vitrectomy
I/A Modes	Phaco Modes	Modes	Other Modes
IRR/ASP	Sculpt	Fixed Cut/Linear	Linear
		Vacuum	Coagulation
Capsule Polish	Segment Removal	Fixed Cut/Fixed	Mode Sequence
		Flow
Viscoelastic	Dual Linear	Linear Cut/Linear
Removal	Sculpt	Vacuum
Linear Vacuum	Dual Linear	Linear Cut/Fixed
	Segment Removal	Flow
Linear Flow	Fixed Vacuum
Fixed Flow	Linear Vacuum
	Fixed Flow
	Linear Flow

TABLE III
Posterior Operation Modes

Frag Modes	Vitrectomy Modes	Scissor Modes	Other Modes
Fixed Vacuum	Single Cut/Linear	Single Cut	Linear
	Vacuum		Coagulation
Linear Vacuum	Fixed Cut/Linear	Fixed Cut	Mode Sequence
	Vacuum
Fixed Flow	Fixed Cut/Fixed	Linear Cut
	Flow
Linear Flow	Linear Cut/Linear	Proportional
	Vacuum	Actuation

Tables IV-IX, below list exemplary initial operating parameters for the various modes shown in Tables II and III.

TABLE IVa
Default Operating Parameters for
Irrigation/Aspiration Modes
IRRIGATION/ASPIRATION MODES

	Irr/Asp &
Parameter	Lin Vac	Cap Polish	Vis Rem
Vacuum	linear	linear	linear
Min Vac
	100 mmHg	1 mmHg	50 mmHg
Max Vac	550 mmHg	100 mmHg	200 mmHg
Flow
Min Flow
Max Flow
Foot Rocker	max vac	max vac	max vac
Sw
Foot Pitch	lin vac 30-100%	lin vac 30-100%	lin vac 30-100%
	travel	travel	travel

TABLE IVb
Default Operating Parameters for
Irrigation/Aspiration Modes
IRRIGATION/ASPIRATION MODES

Parameter	Fixed Flow	Lin Flow
Vacuum
Min Vac
Max Vac	linear (25-550 mmHg)	400 mmHg
Flow	fixed (25 cc/min)	linear
Min Flow
		1 cc/min
Max Flow
		35 cc/min
Foot Rocker Sw	fixed flow	max vac
Foot Pitch	lin max vac 30-100% travel	lin flow 30-100% travel
	fixedflow 30% travel

The following foot control operating parameters apply to each of the irrigation/aspiration modes:

Coagulation switch—controls coagulation on/off

Programmable function switch—no function

Pitch—irrigation control for pedal travel 1-100%

Yaw left—reflux

Yaw right—none

The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially disabled in each of the irrigation/aspiration modes) are:

Coagulation power—12%

IV pole height—60 cm (40 cm in capsule polish mode; 50 cm in viscoelastic removal mode)

IOP—40 mmHg

Lamp 1—off

Lamp 2—off

TABLE Va
Default Operating Parameters for Phacoemulsification Modes
PHACOEMULSIFICATION MODES

Mode

3 &
Parameter	Sculpt	Mode	2	Lin Vac	Mode	4
Vacuum	fixed (30	fixed (80	linear	linear
	mmHg)	mmHg)
Min Vac			5 mmHg	30mmHg
Max Vac
			100 mmHg	120 mmHg
Flow
Min Flow
Max Flow
PPS
	6	6	0	0
Foot Rocker Sw	fixed vac	fixed vac	max vac	max vac
Foot Pitch	fixedvac 30%	fixedvac 30%	lin vac 30-	lin vac 30-
	travel	travel		100% travel	100% travel
	lin U/S 50-	lin U/S 50-
	100% travel	100% travel
Foot Yaw R	none	enable/disable	lin U/S	lin U/S
		PPS

TABLE Vb
Default Operating Parameters for
Phacoemulsification Modes
PHACOEMULSIFICATION MODES

Parameter	Fixed Vac	Fixed Flow	Lin Flow
Vacuum	fixed (50 mmHg)
MinVac
Max Vac
		30 mmHg	50 mmHg
Flow		fixed (18 cc/min)	linear
Min Flow
			1 cc/min
Max Flow
			20 cc/min
PPS
	6	6	0
Foot Rocker	fixed vac	fixed flow	max vac
Sw
Foot Pitch	fixedvac 30%	fixedflow 30%	lin flow 30-100%
	travel	travel	travel
	lin U/S 50-100%	lin U/S 50-100%
	travel	travel
Foot Yaw R	enable/disable	PPS on/off	lin U/S
	PPS

The following operating parameters apply to each of the phacoemulsification modes:

Ultrasound power—linear

Minimum ultrasound power level—0%

Maximum ultrasound power level—35%

The following foot control operating parameters apply to each of the phacoemulsification modes:

Coagulation switch—controls coagulation on/off

Programmable function switch—no function

Pitch—irrigation control for pedal travel 1-100%

Yaw left—reflux

The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially disabled in each of the phacoemulsification modes) are:

Coagulation power—12%

IV pole height—75 cm (80 cm inmode 2 and mode 4)

IOP—40 mmHg

Lamp 1—off

Lamp 2—off

TABLE VIa
Default Operating Parameters
for Phacofragmentation Modes
PHACOFRAGMENTATION MODES

Parameter	Fixed Vac	Lin Vac
Vacuum	fixed (150 mmHg)	linear
Min Vac
		5mmHg
Max Vac
		150 mmHg
Flow
Min Flow
Max Flow
PPS
	6	0
Foot Rocker Sw	fixed vac	max vac
Foot Pitch	fixedvac 5% travel	lin vac 5-100% travel
	lin U/S 30-100% travel
Foot Yaw R	enable/disable PPS	lin U/S

TABLE VIb
Default Operating Parameters
for Phacofragmentation Modes
PHACOFRAGMENTATION MODES

Parameter	Fixed Flow	Lin Flow
Vacuum
Min Vac
Max Vac	200 mmHg	150 mmHg
Flow	fixed (15 cc/min)	linear
Min Flow
		1 cc/min
Max Flow
		20 cc/min
PPS
	6	0
Foot Rocker Sw	fixed flow	max vac
Foot Pitch	fixedflow 5% travel	lin flow 5-100% travel
	lin U/S 30-100% travel
Foot Yaw R	PPS on/off	lin U/S

The following operating parameters apply to each of the phacofragmentation modes:

Ultrasound power—linear

Minimum ultrasound power level—0%

Maximum ultrasound power level—25%

The following foot control operating parameters apply to each of the phacofragmentation modes:

Coagulation switch—controls coagulation on/off

Programmable function switch—no function

Yaw left—reflux

The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially disabled in each of the phacofragmentation modes) are:

Coagulation power—12%

IV pole height—75 cm

IOP—30 mmHg

Lamp 1—off

Lamp 2—off

TABLE VIIa
Default Operating Parameters for
Vitrectomy (Anterior) Modes
VITRECTOMY (ANTERIOR) MODES

Fixed Cut

Parameter	Lin Vac	Fixed Flow
Vacuum	linear
Min Vac
	0 mmHg
Max Vac	200 mmHg	linear (0-200 mmHg)
Flow		fixed (15 cc/min)
Min Flow
Max Flow
Cut Rate	fixed (300 CPM)	fixed (300 CPM)
Min Cut Rate
Max Cut Rate
Foot Rocker Sw	fixed cut rate	fixed cut rate
Foot Pitch	lin vac 30-100% travel	fixedflow 30% travel
		lin max vac 30-100% travel
Foot Yaw R	cutter on/off	cutter on/off

TABLE VIIb
Default Operating Parameters for
Vitrectomy (Anterior) Modes
VITRECTOMY (ANTERIOR) MODES

Linear Cut

Parameter	Lin Vac	Fixed Flow
Vacuum	linear
Min Vac
	0 mmHg
Max Vac	200 mmHg	linear (0-200 mmHg)
Flow		fixed (15 cc/min)
Min Flow
Max Flow
Cut Rate	linear	linear
Min Cut Rate	30CPM	30 CPM
Max Cut Rate	300CPM	300 CPM
Foot Rocker Sw	max cut rate	max cut rate
Foot Pitch	lin vac 30-100% travel	fixedflow 30% travel
		lin max vac 30-100% travel
Foot Yaw R	linear cut	linear cut

The following foot control operating parameters apply to each of the vitrectomy (anterior) modes:

Coagulation switch—controls coagulation on/off

Programmable function switch—no function

Pitch—irrigation control for pedal travel 1-100%

Yaw left—reflux

The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially disabled in each of the vitrectomy (anterior) modes) are:

Coagulation power—12%

IV pole height—40 cm

IOP—40 mmHg

Lamp 1—off

Lamp 2—off

TABLE VIIIa
Default Operating Parameters for
Vitrectomy (Posterior) Modes
VITRECTOMY (POSTERIOR) MODES

Fixed Cut

Parameter	Single	Lin Vac	Fixed Flow
Vacuum	linear	linear
Min Vac
	0mmHg	0 mmHg
Max Vac	200 mmHg	200 mmHg	linear (0-200
			mmHg)
Flow			fixed (15 cc/min)
Min Flow
Max Flow
Cut Rate	single	fixed (600 CPM)	fixed (600 CPM)
Min Cut Rate
Max Cut Rate
Foot Rocker	max vac	fixed cut rate	fixed cut rate
Sw
Foot Pitch	lin vac 5-100%	lin vac 5-100%	fixedflow 5% travel
	travel	travel
			lin max vac 5-100%
			travel
Foot Yaw R	linear cut	cutter on/off	cutter on/off

TABLE VIIIb
Default Operating Parameters for
Vitrectomy (Posterior) Modes
VITRECTOMY (POSTERIOR) MODES

Linear Cut

Parameter	Lin Vac	Fixed Flow
Vacuum	linear
Min Vac
	0 mmHg
Max Vac	200 mmHg	linear (0-200 mmHg)
Flow		fixed (15 cc/min)
Min Flow
Max Flow
Cut Rate	linear	linear
Min Cut Rate	30CPM	30 CPM
Max Cut Rate	600 CPM	600 CPM
Foot Rocker Sw	max cut rate	max cut rate
Foot Pitch	lin vac 5-100% travel	fixedflow 5% travel
		lin max vac 5-100% travel
Foot Yaw R	linear cut	linear cut

The following foot control operating parameters apply to each of the vitrectomy (posterior) modes:

Coagulation switch—controls coagulation on/off

Programmable function switch—no function

Yaw left—reflux

The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially disabled in each of the vitrectomy (posterior) modes) are:

Coagulation power—12%

IV pole height—75 cm (40 cm for single cut)

IOP—30 mmHg (40 mmHg for single cut)

Lamp 1—off

Lamp 2—off

TABLE IXa
Default Operating Parameters for Scissors Modes
SCISSORS MODES

	Parameter	Single	Fixed Cut
	Cut Rate	single	fixed (60 CPM)
	Min Cut Rate
	Max Cut Rate
	Min Closure
	Max Closure
	Foot Rocker Sw	none	fixed cut rate
	Foot Pitch	single cut 5% travel	fixed cut 5% travel

TABLE IXb
Default Operating Parameters for Scissors Modes
SCISSORS MODES

Parameter	Linear Cut	Proportional Cut
Cut Rate	linear	proportional
Min Cut Rate	0 CPM
Max Cut Rate	100CPM
Min Closure
		1%
Max Closure
		100%
Foot Rocker Sw	max cut rate	max actuation
Foot Pitch	linear cut 5-100% travel	proportional 5-100% travel

The following foot control operating parameters apply to each of the scissors modes:

Coagulation switch—controls coagulation on/off

Programmable function switch—no function

Yaw left—none

Yaw right—none

The operating parameters for the following functions (which are initially disabled in each of the scissors modes) are:

Coagulation power—12%

IV pole height—75 cm

IOP—30 mmHg

Lamp 1—off

Lamp 2—off

With respect to the function-based modes shown in Tables II-IX, in general, the user selects one of the various predefined modes described above from top leveluser selection tabs415, an example of which is shown in FIG. 27 for anterior portion operations. Preferably, thetabs415 are positioned at the bottom of touch-responsive screen255. Only one mode may be active at a time socomputer unit3 automatically deselects the current operating modes when the user selects one of the user selection tabs. In an example of mode selection, the user touches aphaco mode tab417 for the available phacoemulsification modes. Referring now to FIGS. 28 and 29,flat panel display5 initially only displays the first four modes (i.e., sculpt, segment removal, sculpt (dual) and seg removal (dual)) when the user touches the phaco modesuser selection tab417. In response to the user touching atab419 containing the arrow symbol,computer unit3 generates an additional menu of available phaco modes (i.e., fixed vacuum, linear vacuum, fixed flow and linear flow) for display onflat panel display5. For example, the user touches atab421 to select the linear vacuum phaco mode from the menu. FIG. 30 illustrates an exemplary screen display for the linear vacuum phaco mode. As shown, the vacuum, ultrasound (i.e., phacoemulsification) and coagulation functions are available and active in this mode.

As described above, to operate according to the microsurgical system's various operating modes,computer unit3 first identifies and initializes each of the nodes on the network (i.e.,modules13 installed inbase unit7 and controlcircuits105,107 forfoot control assembly15 andIV pole assembly17, respectively). In a preferred embodiment, thecentral processor245 ofcomputer unit3 executes software which constitutes a system engine having three operational components: power-up initialization, network management and network liaison. The initialization component of the system engine creates and starts the network. The network management component provides binding/unbinding of network variables formodules13 on the network to implement user-selected modes, monitorsmodules13 for functionality and processes incoming messages from the network. The network liaison component processes the configuration file and mode changes and notifies the user interface of display changes and error occurrences.

FIG. 31 illustrates the operation ofcomputer unit3 executing the initialization component of the system engine at power-up ofsystem1. In general, the system engine identifies each of the nodes on the network and creates a programming object for each node'sneuron processor225 that contains local network variables by which the user interface accesses the node. Beginning atstep427, the system engine initializes a network database stored in thehard drive249 ofcomputer unit3. As described above, eachneuron processor225 of the various nodes on the network executes embedded programs for controlling the differentmicrosurgical instruments19 and peripherals. Communications parameters represent a unique identification label specific to eachprocessor225 which includes information regarding the type of device being controlled (e.g., vitrectomy handpiece or ultrasound device) as well as information regarding the version ofmodule13 or peripheral in which theprocessor225 is located. The identification label also includes a specific identifier (e.g., a serial number) which is unique to theparticular module13 orcontrol circuit105,107. As an example, the version of aparticular module13 may change as either the hardware or software is updated. The network database includes previously installed nodes in the form ofspecific module13 orcontrol circuit105,107 identifiers, names for the nodes which correspond to the different types of devices and names for the different programs which correspond to those nodes. In other words, the network database may include information regarding a system that has each of the different types ofmodules13 and peripherals which are available already installed on the network.

Atstep429, the system engine reads a set of communications parameters corresponding to the hardware (i.e., thedifferent modules13 andcontrol circuits105,107) actually present on the network and creates a node object in software to provide access to theparticular module13 or peripheral. Proceeding to step431, the system engine begins with thefirst module13 orperipheral control circuit105,107 for which a node is already installed in the network database and, atstep433, creates a device object in software to represent this node. Preferably, the system engine derives the device object from the node object providing access to the hardware. If the system engine determines atstep435 thatother modules13 orperipheral control circuits105,107 already have installed nodes in the network database, it returns to step431 and proceeds to thenext module13 orperipheral control circuit105,107. In this manner, the system engine creates device objects for the hardware already installed in the network database. These device objects created by the system engine contain the local network variables by which the user interface accesses the nodes.

After creating device objects to represent the nodes already installed in the network database, the system engine proceeds to step437 for examining themodules13 orperipheral control circuits105,107 present on the network as compared to the previously installed nodes. Proceeding to step439, the system engine determines if there is a node installed in the network database (that is no longer present on the network) that corresponds to the same type ofmodule13 orperipheral control circuit105,107 being examined. If so, the system engine replaces the communications parameters for the previously installed node with the communication parameters for theparticular module13 orperipheral control circuit105,107 atstep441. When a replacement operation is performed, any network variable bindings are transferred to the new node. Further, the network database as well as other nodes involved in the network variable binding need not be modified. On the other hand, if a node has not been installed in the network database that corresponds to the same type ofmodule13 orperipheral control circuit105,107 being examined, then the system engine proceeds to step443. Atstep443, the system engine installs a new node with the communication parameters for thenew module13 orperipheral control circuit105,107 and creates a device object to represent this new node. Following either step441 or443, the system engine proceeds to step445 to determine ifother modules13 orperipheral control circuits105,107 are present on the network that do not already have installed nodes in the network database. If so, the system engine returns to step437. Otherwise, the system engine proceeds to step447.

Atstep447, the system engine removes all of the remaining nodes installed in the network database for which hardware is not present on the network. Proceeding to step449, in the event that more than onemodule13 orperipheral control circuit105,107 of the same type are present on the network, the system engine makes the first device object for each type active. In other words, the system engine gives priority to one of the multiple, or duplicative,modules13 orperipheral control circuits105,107.

Thus, if anew module13 has been added to the configuration since the previous power-up sequence, whether it be the same type or a different type ofmodule13 compared to thosemodules13 previously installed,system1 automatically detects and initializes thenew module13 and reconfigures both the communication parameters and user interface. By doing so, the user now has access to thenew module13 and can control anysurgical instruments19 associated with it. Similarly, if aparticular module13 has been removed from the network since the previous power-up sequence,system1 automatically senses the absence ofmodule13 and removes any associated communication parameters and user interface functions. Further,computer unit3, in executing the automatic network reconfiguration, allows more than one of the same type ofmodule13 to be installed insystem1.Computer unit3 determines primary and secondary priorities as required for identification and control via the user interface.Computer unit3 also determines disallowed system configurations and instructs the user via the user interface to take appropriate action.

In this manner,computer unit3 initializessystem1 at power-up by configuringneuron processors225 and creating the necessary local network variables for use by the user interface to access the network, verifying thatsystem1 meets certain minimum operational requirements and performing all constant network bindings.Computer unit3 also notifies the user interface of any configuration changes from the last configuration including the addition/removal ofmodules13 or peripherals fromsystem1. After power-up initialization, control ofsystem1 passes to the user interface. In an alternative embodiment,computer unit3 additionally identifies the position of theparticular modules13 withinbase unit7 at power-up.

Referring now to the individual components shown generally in the exemplary system configuration of FIG. 21, eachmodule13 installed inbase unit7 controls one or moremicrosurgical instruments19 for providing several different surgical functions. For example,modules13 includeventuri IAV module321,scroll IAV module323,phaco module325,scissors module327,coagulation module329 and illumination module331 (also referred to as illumination module13A with respect to FIGS.4A-4D).System1 also includesfoot control assembly15 andIV pole assembly17 as peripherals connected to the network ofsystem1.

FIG. 32 showsventuri IAV module321 in block diagram form (shown in detail in FIGS.43-60). As shown in FIG. 32,module321 has aneuron circuit455 connected to the network via thenetwork connector171 at the rear ofmodule321 which connects tobackplane101. Theneuron circuit455 includesRS485 transceiver223 for receiving and transmitting data over the data communications bus.Neuron processor225, coupled totransceiver223, provides network communications control formodule321.Neuron processor225 also executes embedded application programs for controlling the irrigation, aspiration and vitrectomy functions ofsystem1. In this instance,neuron circuit455 includes a memory457 (e.g., a flash EEPROM), for storing the application programs forIAV module321. In addition, thememory457 stores the configuration and identification data for use in initializingmodule321 on the network. Advantageously,central processor245 is able to reprogrammemory457 via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user.Neuron circuit455 also includes a clock circuit459 (e.g., a crystal oscillator) providing a time base forneuron225 to operate.Venturi IAV module321 further includes astatus LED461, such as a green LED on the front panel ofmodule321, for indicating that the module is active, and apower regulation circuit463 for generating a −5 volts supply for use by the circuitry. Although not shown in FIG. 32,neuron circuit455 also includes another RS485 transceiver for receiving a reset signal fromcomputer unit3.

In general,neuron processors225 may be used with coprocessors if greater processing capability is required than that provided byprocessor225. In those instances, theparticular modules13 may include a coprocessor receiving and responsive to the control signals generated byneuron processor225 for generating additional control signals to provide closed loop control during performance of the surgical procedures. In a preferred embodiment of the invention,IAV module321 includes acoprocessor circuit465 which cooperates with a programmable logic circuit, such as an electronically programmable logic device (EPLD)467. Thecoprocessor circuit465 preferably includes a coprocessor469 (e.g., an Intel 386EX processor) and an associated memory471 (e.g., a flash EEPROM and a static RAM), a clock circuit473 (e.g., a crystal oscillator) for providing the clock signals used bycoprocessor circuit465, and awatchdog timer475.

Referring further to FIG. 32, thecoprocessor469 ofcoprocessor circuit465 generates an aspiration control signal as a function of an aspiration level operating parameter and provides it to a digital-to-analog (D/A)converter483. In the illustrated embodiment, the D/A converter483 provides a parallel interface by whichcoprocessor469 controls air flow through the module's venturi pump. Anaspiration drive485 receives the analog output of D/A converter483 and drives anaspiration servo valve487 in response thereto. The opening and closing of theaspiration servo valve487 determines the air flow through the venturi and, thus, determines the vacuum level.Venturi IAV module321 preferably supports operation of a single aspiration port driven from the venturi pump located within the module. The venturi pump requires an external gas/air input with pressures between, for example, 80 to 100 pounds per square inch-gauge.Module321 further includes a pressure relief valve (not shown) for preventing over-pressure conditions. Advantageously, the control circuitry ofmodule321 provides both fixed and linear control of the aspiration vacuum level. For example, the aspiration vacuum level may range from 0 mmHg to 550 mmHg and may be varied in 1 mmHg increments. The user sets all aspiration parameters via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39 orfoot control assembly15 and controls the aspiration function viafoot control assembly15.

The irrigation portion ofventuri IAV module321 supports gravity fed irrigation. For example,IV pole assembly17 supports a bag of sterile saline solution which the surgeon uses to irrigate the patient's eye during surgery.Module321 includes a set ofsolenoid valves493, one of which is apinch valve495 that prevents all fluid ingress tosystem1 when it is closed. Either touch-responsive screen255 orfoot control assembly15 provides the user with fixed and on/off (open/close) control the irrigation function ofventuri IAV module321.Neuron processor225 cooperates withcoprocessor469 and acontrol register496 ofEPLD467 to generate drive signals for commanding a set ofsolenoid drivers497. In turn, thesolenoid drivers497 cause thesolenoid valves493 to open and close by the desired amount.

Preferably,IAV module321 includes a set ofpneumatic pressure transducers501 which provide feedback regarding the actual aspiration or irrigation pressures. For example, anaspiration transducer503 senses the aspiration pressure level and aline pressure transducer505 senses the irrigation pressure level. Aninstrumentation amplifier circuit507 associated with theline pressure transducer505 amplifies its pressure signals before it is processed. Preferably, the aspiration transducer includes an internal amplifier. An analog-to-digital (A/D)converter511 receives the amplified pressure signals and converts the analog pressure signals to digital values for processing bycoprocessor circuit465. In this manner,IAV module321 provides closed loop control of the aspiration and irrigation functions.

Microsurgical ophthalmic systems typically employ a vacuum-operated aspiration system with a removable fluid collection cassette such as illustrated and described in commonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 4,773,897. The aspiration fluid is drawn into a cassette by connecting the aspirating instrument to the cassette which is under a vacuum or negative pressure. The surgeon carrying out the microsurgical ophthalmic procedure has control of the aspiration system by, for example,foot control assembly 15 which permits the surgeon to precisely control the suction by activating a wedge shaped solenoid plunger such as shown at reference number 182 in the aforesaid patent, or theaspiration servo valve 487 as shown in FIG. 32, to block or open the suction from the cassette to the microsurgical instrument.

Thesolenoids493 ofmodules321 also include acassette capture valve515 and acassette pinch valve517. The plunger (not shown) of thecassette capture valve515 secures the cassette in position inmodule321. Thecassette pinch valve517 closes the aspiration line when the aspiration function is not active to prevent backflow of fluid from the cassette or aspiration line to the patient's eye.

Additionally, one of thesolenoids493 inventuri IAV module321 is areflux solenoid valve519 for driving a reflux plunger, such as shown at184 in the aforesaid patent. When actuated, the reflux plunger squeezes a reflux chamber associated with the cassette to force a small amount of fluid in the aspiration tube back out the passage thereby assuring that the tube stays open and unblocked. Depending on the procedure being carried out, a different amount of reflux is required, for example, if an anterior or posterior procedure is being carried out. It is important that a cassette being used for a posterior procedure use a cassette which provides much less of an amount of reflux than is the case with a cassette used for an anterior procedure. An advantageous feature ofsystem1 automatically detects and differentiates between a posterior, or micro-reflux, cassette and an anterior cassette. This feature prevents the user from inadvertently installing and using the wrong reflux cassette for a given procedure.

In accordance with this invention, if a cassette designed for use during an anterior procedure is inserted intoIAV module321 which is to be used for a posterior procedure, the user interface indicates this error visually and/or audibly and preventssystem1 from being activated with an incorrect cassette installed.

In order to identify the cassettes corresponding to the procedure with which they are to be used, each cassette carries a particular color. Preferably the color-bearing means carried by each cassette is a coupler member, or insert, such as illustrated at150 in the aforesaid patent. It is generally I-shaped and frictionally fits in a recess in the cassette such as shown at130 in the aforesaid patent. These removable color-bearing means, for example, one yellow and the other blue, may be easily applied to and removed from the cassettes which may be otherwise identical. When a cassette is inserted intomodule321, the color-bearing means is positioned adjacent a cassettepresent sensor525 which generates a signal indicating the presence of the cassette. Preferably, the cassettepresent sensor525 is embodied by a photoelectric color sensor, e.g., an infrared light source in a photoelectric circuit, such as that sold by Tri-Tronics Co., Inc. of Tampa, Fla. under its model number F4. The yellow color will reflect the infrared light and the blue will absorb it thus differentiating a cassette for one particular procedure from another for a different procedure. Thus, cassette present sensor detects the presence of the cassette as a function of the color of the color-bearing means. FIG. 61 illustrates a referred circuit which receives the signal generated by cassettepresent sensor525 for communication tocomputer unit3. If the cassette color does not correspond to the particular procedure selected by the surgeon, an audible and/or visible signal indicates this to the user via the user interface. Also,computer unit3, in response to this information, prevents any ophthalmic procedure from being carried out until the user installs the correct cassette. In the embodiment of FIG. 32, cassettepresent sensor525 provides a signal tocomputer unit3 for informing the user of the incorrect cassette by first providing a signal to a status register527 ofEPLD467. In turn,EPLD467 andcoprocessor circuit465 provide the signal toneuron circuit455 for communication back tocomputer unit3.

In addition to feedback regarding the particular aspiration and irrigation levels,module321 also includescassette level sensors529 for generating an almost full and a full signal for notifying the user via the user interface that the cassette should be changed.

A priming function available to the user via the user interface allows the user to prime the surgical handpieces by opening and closing theirrigation pinch valve495 and by removing air from the aspiration line. This function also allows the user to eject the aspiration collection cassette by selecting an ejection option.

As described above,venturi IAV module321 also supports the vitrectomy function ofsystem1. In a preferred embodiment,venturi IAV module321 includes a vitrectomy port to which a vitrectomy cutter is connected. Preferably,module321 controls the vitrectomy cutter so that it provides three types of cutting action: linear cut rate; fixed cut rate; and single cut. Preferably, the linear cut rate may range from 30 to 750 cuts per minute and may vary in 1 cut per minute increments. The user sets the cut rate via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39 orfoot control assembly15 and controls the cut rate viafoot control assembly15. The user may also program the fixed cut rate to provide 30 to 750 cuts per minute in 1 cut per minute increments. In this instance, the user sets the fixed cut rate via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39 orfoot control assembly15 and changes the fixed cut rate viafoot control assembly15. The single cut is provided with fixed, on/off control. When a single cut is enabled (on), the vitrectomy cutter will close/open one time with a single activation. The user selects the single cut via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39, orfoot control assembly15 and activates the cut viafoot control assembly15. The vitrectomy cutter attached toventuri IAV module321 is driven from the external air/gas input which is also used to drive the venturi pump.

As shown in FIG. 32,EPLD467 preferably includes avitrectomy timer533 for performing the timing functions necessary for setting the vitrectomy cutter's cut rate.Solenoid drivers497 drive avitrectomy solenoid535 as a function of the timing signal from thevitrectomy timer533 for controlling vitrectomy cutting.

Preferably,system1 includesscroll IAV module323 in addition to or instead ofIAV module321. Although similar toventuri IAV module321,scroll IAV module323 uses a scroll pump (not shown), rather than a venturi pump, to provide the irrigation and aspiration functions. According to the invention, the scroll pump ofscroll IAV module323 can function as a venturi aspiration system (i.e., vacuum control) or as a scroll aspiration system (i.e., flow control).

In this instance,module323 operates in conjunction with a disposable scroll cassette which includes the scroll pump, pinch valve openings for controlling irrigation, aspiration, venting and calibration, a transducer diaphragm, and a collection reservoir. The scroll cassette also includes the irrigation line, the aspiration line, and the collection reservoir at the front of the cassette housing. The user loads the scroll cassette into a retractable drawer located on the front ofmodule323. Once loaded, the scroll cassette is engaged and disengaged to the drive and control systems ofmodule323 via touch-responsive screen255. In other words, scrollIAV module323 retracts, or engages, the cassette or extends, or disengages, the cassette when commanded via an entry to touch-responsive screen255.

The aspiration portion ofscroll IAV module323 drives a single aspiration port which provides either vacuum or flow control of aspiration. Preferably, the vacuum aspiration function provides vacuum levels from 0 mmHg to 550 mmHg in 1 mmHg increments and the flow aspiration function provides flow rates from 1 cc/min to 60 cc/min in 1 cc/min increments. The user sets the aspiration operating parameters via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39 orfoot control assembly15 and changes them viafoot control assembly15.

The irrigation portion ofscroll IAV module323 also supports gravity-fed irrigation similar toventuri IAV module321. In contrast toventuri IAV module321, though,module323 does not includepinch valve495. Rather, scrollIAV module323 provides irrigation control via the disposable scroll cassette in combination with a solenoid plunger insidemodule323. As withmodule321, the user has fixed, on/off (open/close) control of the irrigation function ofscroll IAV module323 via touch-responsive screen255 orfoot control assembly15.

Similar toventuri IAV module321,scroll IAV module323 also supports the vitrectomy function ofsystem1. However, a pneumatic pump located insidemodule323 drives the vitrectomy cutter attached to scrollIAV module323 instead of the external air/gas input toventuri IAV module321.

FIGS. 147 and 148 illustrate a preferred pressure sensing circuit for use withscroll IAV module323 in schematic diagram form.

Turning now to FIG. 33, phacoemulsification and phacofragmentation module (phaco)325 (shown in detail in FIGS. 26A-26T) is a self-contained module which delivers, for example, up to 35 watts of phaco power into 5000 ohms at a frequency of 29±2 kHz to aphaco output port537 to which a phacoemulsification and/orphacofragmentation handpiece539 is connected. In one preferred embodiment,phaco module325 supports both linear and pulsed operation. The linear phaco function provides continuous phaco power which the user may program to range from 0% to 100% of maximum 1% increments. The surgeon activates the linear phaco output at the minimum programmed phaco power level by depressing the center foot pedal offoot control assembly15 and then increases it to the maximum programmed output level as a function of linear foot pedal travel. In this instance, linear phaco power ramps up from zero at a fixed linear rate. Preferably, the user sets the output levels via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39, orfoot control assembly15 and controls the linear phaco function viafoot control assembly15. In contrast to linear operation, the pulsed phaco function provides phaco power for programmed, finite time durations (e.g., periodic).Module325 provides the user with fixed, on/off power control which the user may set at 1% to 100% of maximum in 1% increments. The user then may program the pulsed output control to provide between 1 to 20 pulses per second in 1 pulse per second increments. The user sets the output power level and pulse rate via touch-responsive screen255 and controls them viafoot control assembly15.

In a preferred embodiment,phaco module325 has aneuron circuit541 connected to the network via thenetwork connector171 at the rear ofmodule325 which connects tobackplane101. Theneuron circuit541 includesRS485 transceiver223 for receiving and transmitting data over the data communications bus.Neuron processor225, coupled totransceiver223, provides network communications control formodule325.Neuron processor225 also executes embedded application programs stored in a memory543 (e.g., a flash EEPROM) for controlling the phacoemulsification and phacofragmentation functions ofsystem1. Thememory543 also stores the configuration and identification data for use in initializingmodule325 on the network. Advantageously,central processor245 is able to reprogrammemory543 via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user.Neuron circuit541 also includes a clock circuit545 (e.g., a crystal oscillator) providing a time base forneuron225 to operate.Phaco module325, similar toIAV module321, includes a power regulation orvoltage reference circuit546 for generating a ±5 volts and 4 volts supplies for use by the circuitry. Although not shown in FIG. 33,neuron circuit541 also includes another RS485 transceiver for receiving a reset signal fromcomputer unit3 and a status LED for indicating thatmodule325 is active.

As shown in FIG. 33,phaco module325 also includes acoprocessor circuit547 which cooperates with anEPLD549. Thecoprocessor circuit547 preferably includes a coprocessor551 (e.g., an Intel 386EX processor) and an associated memory553 (e.g., a flash EEPROM and a static RAM), a clock circuit555 (e.g., a crystal oscillator) and awatchdog557. TheEPLD549 has apulse timer559 for providing clock signals used to a frequency generator561 (e.g., sine wave generator). Thecoprocessor551 ofcoprocessor circuit545 cooperates withEPLD547 to provide control signals to thefrequency generator561 for generating a programmable frequency for the pulsed phaco output. Aphaco drive circuit563 uses the programmable frequency generated byfrequency generator561 to drive thephaco output537. Advantageously,phaco module325 includes aboost regulator565 for maintaining the rail voltage provided to the phaco drive563 at 3 volts, for example, greater than the commanded phaco voltage level. This prevents excessive power dissipation inphaco drive563.Phaco module325 also includes amonitor circuit567 for monitoring not only the boost voltage but also the phase of the phaco power. For optimum phaco functions, it is desired that the phase of the current and voltage remain on the resonant frequency of thehandpiece539 even as its load changes. Themonitor circuit567 also provides an overcurrent detector for preventing overcurrent conditions inphaco module325.

According to the invention,phaco module325 also includes a probepresent circuit571 for detecting the presence ofhandpiece539 connected tophaco output537.Coprocessor circuit547 andEPLD549 combine the output of the probe present circuit with shutdown signals generated bymonitor circuit567 to drive arelay control575. In turn, therelay control575 disables the phaco drive563 in the event of undesirable operating conditions.

With respect to FIG. 34, scissors module327 (shown in detail in FIGS. 89-103) preferably providessystem1 with not only a scissors function but also air/fluid exchange and forceps functions. In a preferred embodiment,module327 supports an electrically drivenport579 whichmodule327 controls with respect to the user-selected operating mode and the operating parameters of a scissor/forceps handpiece connected to theport579.

Scissors module327 preferably provides the scissors/forceps function with a linear cut rate, a fixed cut rate, a single actuation and a proportional actuation. For example, the user may programscissors module327 to provide a linear cut rate between 30 and 300 cuts per minute in one cut per minute increments via touch-responsive screen255 orfoot control assembly15. In this instance, the surgeon controls the actual cutter rate viafoot control assembly15. The user may also programmodule327 to provide a fixed cut rate between 30 and 300 cuts per minute in one cut per minute increments via touch-responsive screen255 orfoot control assembly15 withfoot control assembly15 providing on/off control. As with the other operating parameters, the user may also programmodule327 to provide a single cut, or an individual scissors/forceps cycle. The surgeon preferably activates the single cut viafoot control assembly15. The proportional actuation function closes the scissors handpiece by a certain percentage. For example, the user may programscissors module327 to provide proportional actuation from 0% to 100% of closure in 25% closure increments wherein touch-responsive screen255 andfoot control assembly15 provide the user with linear control.

As with theother modules13,scissors module327 has aneuron circuit583 connected to the network via thenetwork connector171 at the rear ofmodule327 which connects tobackplane101. Theneuron circuit583 includesRS485 transceiver223 for receiving and transmitting data over the data communications bus coupled toneuron processor225. In addition to network communications control,neuron processor225 also executes an embedded application program stored in a memory585 (e.g., a flash EEPROM) for controlling the scissors/forceps and air/fluid exchange functions ofsystem1. Thememory585 also stores the configuration and identification data for use in initializingmodule327 on the network. Advantageously,central processor245 is able to reprogrammemory585 via the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user.Neuron circuit583 also includes awatchdog timer circuit587 and aclock circuit589. Although not shown in FIG. 34,neuron circuit585 also includes another RS485 transceiver for receiving a reset signal fromcomputer unit3.

Similar to some of theother modules13,scissors module327 includes an EPLD595 for use with theneuron processor225 ofneuron circuit585 for controlling the scissor/forceps handpiece as a function of the user-entered operating parameters. In particular, theEPLD595 is a drive selector for selecting either asolenoid drive597 or aDC motor drive599 for drivinghandpiece port579. In this manner,scissors module327 is able to drive two types of scissors instruments.

As shown in FIG. 34,scissors module327 also includespneumatic controls605 for providing the air/fluid exchange function. For example, the pneumatic controls drive three solenoid valves for controlling charging, exhausting and holding of the IOP. Preferably, the air/fluid exchange portion ofmodule327 supports a single air port (not shown) driven by a pneumatic pump which is part of the pneumatic controls605. As an example, the pump supports air pressures up to 100 mmHg in 1 mmHg increments at flow rates up to five standard cubic feet per hour. The user controls the air/fluid exchange port via touch-responsive screen255 orfoot control assembly15. FIG. 34 also shows an IOP detector607 (e.g., a pressure transducer) for providing feedback toneuron circuit583. In response to theIOP detector607 detecting either an over-pressure or under-pressure condition, the user interface provides an audible warning.Scissors module327 further includes astatus LED611, such as a green LED on the front panel ofmodule327, for indicating that the module is active and ahandpiece detector circuit613 for detecting the presence of a scissors handpiece connected toport579. Although not shown in FIG. 34, neuron circuit also includes another RS485 transceiver for receiving a reset signal fromcomputer unit3.

In the event of power loss or module failure,module327 is equipped with a pneumatic receiver and shut-off valve to give the user adequate time to respond to the failure condition.

As shown in FIG. 35, bipolar coagulation module329 (shown in detail in FIGS. 104-113) is a self-contained module which supports a single bipolar output625. In a preferred embodiment, the bipolar output delivers up to 7.5 watts of bipolar power into 100 ohms. Preferably,module329 controls the port to provide either a fixed bipolar function or a linear bipolar function. The user may programbipolar coagulation module329 to provide fixed bipolar power between 2% to 100% of maximum in 1% increments. The bipolar output is preferably activated at the programmed output power level via a momentary contact (push-button) switch onfoot control assembly15. The bipolar output remains activated as long as the push-button remains depressed. The user sets the output level via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39 orfoot control assembly15 and changes the setting via a push-button onfoot control assembly15. The user may programmodule329 to provide linear bipolar power between 2% to 100% of maximum and may vary the power level in 1% increments. The bipolar output is preferably activated at the minimum programmed output power level when the surgeon depresses the center foot pedal offoot control assembly15 and then increases to the maximum programmed output power level as a function of linear foot pedal travel. The user sets the output level via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39 orfoot control assembly15 and controls the level viafoot control assembly15.

As with theother modules13,coagulation module329 has aneuron circuit627 connected to the network via thenetwork connector171 at the rear ofmodule329 which connects tobackplane101. Theneuron circuit627 includesRS485 transceiver223 for receiving and transmitting data over the data communications bus.Neuron processor225, coupled totransceiver223, provides network communications control formodule329.Neuron processor225 also executes an embedded application program for controlling the bipolar coagulation function ofsystem1. In this instance,neuron circuit627 includes a memory629 (e.g., a flash EEPROM), for storing the application program forcoagulation module329. In addition, thememory629 stores the configuration and identification data for use in initializingmodule329 on the network. Advantageously,central processor245 is able to reprogrammemory629 via the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user.Neuron circuit627 also includes a clock circuit631 (e.g., a crystal oscillator) providing a time base forneuron225 to operate. Although not shown in FIG. 35,neuron circuit627 also includes another RS485 transceiver for receiving a reset signal fromcomputer unit3.

Coagulation module329 also includes anEPLD635, for use with theneuron processor225 ofneuron circuit627 for controlling the bipolar coagulation device as a function of the user-entered operating parameters. In particular, theEPLD635 includes acontrol logic circuit637 for generating an enable signal to enable coagulation, anactivity monitor639 to monitor bipolar output voltage and output activity (whether fixed or linear output) and abipolar timer641 for generating a pulse width modulation frequency.

Bipolar coagulation module329 further includes anovervoltage detector645 for interrupting power to the bipolar output625 in the event of an excessive or unwanted output condition. Preferably, theovervoltage detector645 also communicates with the network vianeuron processor225 andtransceiver223 for signaling an alarm to the user of the undesirable output condition.

According to the invention, theneuron processor225 ofneuron circuit627 in combination withEPLD635 enable a set ofpre-drivers649 in the proper phase sequence and, in turn, a set ofpower drivers651 provide power to bipolar output625. In one embodiment,coagulation module329 also includes an isolation andimpedance matching network653 for conditioning the output ofpower drivers651.

FIG. 35 also illustrates astatus LED657 which, as described above, is preferably a green LED positioned on the front panel ofmodule329 for indicating to the user thatcoagulation module329 is active.Module329 also includes power fusing andfiltering circuitry659 to prevent overcurrent conditions and to reduce noise.

Referring now to FIG. 36, illumination module331 (shown in detail in FIGS. 114-125, is a self-contained module having at least two lamps, such as afirst lamp665 and asecond lamp667, for providing light to corresponding illumination ports at the front ofmodule331. According to the invention, the user connects a fiber optic illumination instrument, such as the endo-illuminator to one or both of the ports for use by the surgeon in illuminating the posterior portion of a patient's eye during surgery. Althoughmodule331 provides individual control over the light supplied to each of the ports bylamps665,667, they may be used simultaneously if desired. Further,module331 provides independent control of the intensity of the light provided at the ports. The user is able to select high (100%), medium (75%) or low (50%) output illumination levels via touch-responsive screen255 orremote control39.

In a preferred embodiment,illumination module331 has aneuron circuit671 connected to the network via thenetwork connector171 at the rear ofmodule331 which connects tobackplane101. Theneuron circuit671 includesRS485 transceiver223 andneuron processor225.Neuron processor225 executes network communications control as well the application program for controlling the illumination function ofsystem1. In this instance,neuron circuit671 includes a memory673 (e.g., a flash EEPROM), for storing the application program forillumination module331. In addition, thememory673 stores the configuration and identification data for use in initializingmodule331 on the network. Advantageously,central processor245 is able to reprogrammemory673 via the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user.Neuron circuit671 also includes a clock circuit675 (e.g., a crystal oscillator) for providing the clock signals used byneuron circuit671, and awatchdog timer676. Although not shown in FIG. 36,neuron circuit671 also includes another RS485 transceiver for receiving a reset signal fromcomputer unit3.

As shown in FIG. 36, theneuron processor225 ofneuron circuit671 provides an on/off signal to afirst power relay677 forlamp665 and an on/off signal to asecond power relay679 forlamp667. In turn, either or both of therelays677,679 connect a 12 volt supply681 (provided viabackplane101 from power module103) to a firstlamp driver circuit683 and/or a secondlamp driver circuit685, respectively, for firing either or bothlamp665 andlamp667. In a preferred embodiment,lamp drivers683,685 provide feedback toneuron circuit671 regarding the status oflamps665,667.

In order to vary the intensity of the light provided bylamp665, theneuron circuit671 ofillumination module331 first provides serial data representative of the desired intensity to a digital-to-analog (D/A)converter689. In response to the output of the D/A converter689, adimmer driver circuit691 drives adimmer circuit693. According to the invention, thedimmer circuit693 adjusts the intensity oflamp665. Thus,dimmer driver691 controls thedimmer circuit693 as a function of the serial data input to D/A converter689 to set the intensity oflamp665 at a desired level. In a similar manner,neuron circuit671 also provides serial data representative of the desired intensity to a digital-to-analog (D/A)converter697 to vary the intensity of the light provided bylamp667. The D/A converter697 then provides an analog intensity signal to adimmer driver circuit699 which in turn controls adimmer circuit701 as a function of the serial data input to D/A converter697 for varying the intensity level oflamp667.

Referring further to FIG. 36,illumination module331 also includes astatus LED705, such as a green LED at the front ofmodule331 for indicating thatmodule331 is active.Module331 also provides acooling system707, such as a fan, which is responsive to theneuron processor225 ofneuron circuit671 for dissipating excessive heat insidemodule331 which might damage its components.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention,system1 also supports peripherals selected from the following: remotefoot control assembly15;instrument cart21 with automatedIV pole assembly17;expansion base unit207; and hand-held IRremote control unit39.

One of these peripherals, namely,foot control assembly15, provides the surgeon with remote control of at least onemicrosurgical instrument19 during performance of the surgical procedures. Although the user may be the surgeon, often a nurse or other person in the operating room provides input directly to the user interface ofsystem1. As such,foot control assembly15 provides the primary interface between the surgeon and themicrosurgical system1. Advantageously, the surgeon can control a number of the functions provided bysystem1 as well as change operating modes fromfoot control assembly15.

FIG. 37 illustratescontrol circuit105 according to one preferred embodiment of the invention for controllingfoot control assembly15. Preferably, the foot control circuit105 (shown in detail in FIGS. 126-136) provides network communication and controls the operation offoot control assembly15 as a function of at least one operating parameter.

Although not installed inbase unit7,foot control circuit105 has aneuron circuit717 that includesRS485 transceiver223 for receiving and transmitting data over the data communications bus.Neuron processor225, coupled totransceiver223, provides network communications control forfoot control circuit105. Thus, with respect to the computer network,foot control assembly15, as controlled byfoot control circuit105, is functionally equivalent tomodules13. In other words,foot control circuit105 is also connected to the data communications bus which provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface andfoot control circuit105. Thus, the data communications bus also provides peer-to-peer communication betweenfoot control circuit105 andsurgical modules13. Further,foot control circuit105 is responsive to the surgeon's instructions viafoot control assembly15 for changing the operating parameters ofmicrosurgical instruments19 via the network.

In this instance, thetransceiver223 ofneuron circuit717 is connected to the data communications bus via a data cable (not shown) which connects to theconnector157 on the back ofbackplane101. In the alternative,IV pole assembly17 provides a jumper to whichfoot control circuit105 connects. Apower input721 provides power to footcontrol circuit105 and a voltage regulator, such as aVCC generator723, provides the necessary logic voltages for the circuit. FIG. 37 further illustrates abrake drive circuit725 connected to amagnetic particle brake727 for providing detents in foot pedal travel.

Theneuron circuit717 also includes a memory731 (e.g., a flash EEPROM) for storing an application program forfoot control circuit105. In this instance,neuron processor225 cooperates with anEPLD735, to execute the embedded application program for controllingfoot control assembly15. In addition, thememory731 stores the configuration and identification data for use in initializingfoot control circuit105 on the network. Further, as withmodules13,central processor245 is able to reprogrammemory731 via the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user. As shown in FIG. 37,neuron circuit717 also includes anRS485 transceiver739 for receiving a reset signal fromcomputer unit3.

In one preferred embodiment,foot control assembly15 comprises a center foot pedal, a single rocker switch, and two separate push-button switches (see FIG.231). Pitch and yaw movements of the center pedal preferably providesystem1 with dual linear and on/off controls. Each of these controls are fully programmable with respect to function and control parameters (i.e., range, mode, and the like). According to the invention, theEPLD735 receives information from thevarious switches743 and receives information regarding the travel of the center pedal via apitch encoder745 and ayaw encoder747. According to the invention,EPLD735 provides switch decoding, quadrature decoding/multiplying and brake strength encoding. Due to the limited number of inputs available toneuron225,EPLD735 provides decoding of the switch signals provided byswitches743. Further, pitch andyaw encoders745,747 each provide two quadrature signals to represent the amount and direction of travel of the foot pedal.EPLD735 decodes these signals for use by theneuron225 ofneuron circuit717. Additionally,EPLD735 encodes brake strength signals generated byneuron225 for use by thebrake drive circuit725.

As an example, the center pedal offoot control assembly15 provides approximately 15° of up and down movement in the pitch, or vertical, direction. Within this range of movement, the user may program two detent positions. Further, when the center pedal travels through either of these detent positions, the resistance offered by the pedal changes to provide tactile feedback to the surgeon. This resistance preferably remains the same so long as the center pedal is traveling within the programmed range of the detent. When released, the pedal returns to a home (up) position. Functionally, the user may also program pitch movement to provide linear or on/off control for all applicable surgical functions. For example,foot control assembly15 provides linear control as a function of relative foot pedal displacement (e.g., 0° to 15° down corresponds to 0% to 100% output) and provides fixed control as a function of absolute foot pedal displacement (e.g., 0° to 10° down corresponds to off while 10° to 15° corresponds to on).

In the horizontal or yaw direction, the center foot pedal provides approximately ±10° of left/right movement. In this instance, the pedal has a center detent and, when released, returns to a home (center) position. Functionally, the user may program the yaw movement to provide linear or on/off control for all applicable surgical functions. For example, the pedal provides linear control as a function of relative foot pedal displacement (e.g., 0° to 10° left corresponds to 0% to 100% output) and provides fixed on/off control as a function of absolute foot pedal displacement (e.g., moving to the left (right) of the center detent corresponds to on (off)).

Preferably, the rocker switch is a two-position switch located to the right of the center foot pedal offoot control assembly15. When released, the rocker switch returns to an off (center) position. Functionally, the user may program the rocker switch to provide up/down, increment/decrement, or on/off controls for all applicable surgical functions (e.g., phacoemulsification and phacofragmentation power levels, bipolar power levels, aspiration levels, and the like). The two push-button switches of foot control assembly are preferably located opposite the rocker switch to the left of the center foot pedal. In a preferred embodiment, one of the switches is dedicated to bipolar output control, while the user may program the other switch to control one of the surgical functions. When released, the push-button switches return to an off (up) position.

Referring now to FIG. 38,system1 also includesIV pole assembly17 having the control circuit107 (shown in detail in FIGS. 137-146) for controlling amotor753 to raise and lower the IV pole ofIV pole assembly17. Preferably, the IVpole control circuit107 provides network communication and controls the operation ofIV pole assembly17 as a function of at least one operating parameter. Although not installed inbase unit7, IVpole control circuit107 has aneuron circuit755 that includesRS485 transceiver223 andneuron processor225, coupled totransceiver223. As such, theneuron circuit755 provides network communications control for IVpole control circuit107. Thus, with respect to the computer network,IV pole assembly17, as controlled by IVpole control circuit107, is functionally equivalent tomodules13. In other words, IVpole control circuit107 is also connected to the data communications bus which provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and IVpole control circuit107.Neuron circuit755 also includes a clock circuit757 (e.g., a crystal oscillator) providing a time base forneuron225 to operate. Apower input759, preferably frombase unit7, provides power to IVpole control circuit107.

Similar to footcontrol circuit105, thetransceiver223 of IVpole control circuit107 is connected to the data communications bus via a data cable (not shown) which connects to theconnector157 on the back ofbackplane101 Theneuron circuit755 also includes a memory763 (e.g., a flash EEPROM) for storing an application program for IVpole control circuit107. In this instance,neuron processor225, executes the embedded application program for controlling amotor drive circuit765 as a function of the operating parameters ofIV pole assembly17. In addition, thememory763 stores the configuration and identification data for use in initializing IVpole control circuit107 on the network. Further, as withmodules13,central processor245 is able to reprogrammemory763 via the data communication bus in response to the information provided by the user. Although not shown in FIG. 38,neuron circuit755 also includes a watchdog timer and another RS485 transceiver for receiving a reset signal fromcomputer unit3.

Preferably,IV pole assembly17 is an integrated part ofinstrumentation cart21 and is used to position, for example, two 500 cc containers of fluid up to 100 cm abovecart21. In this regard, an IV pole ofIV pole assembly15 is able to travel up or down at a rate of 6 cm/sec and has a positioning resolution of 1 cm and a positioning repeatability of 2 cm. Functionally, the user sets the IV pole parameters via touch-responsive screen255,remote control39 orfoot control assembly15. A pair oflimit switches767 provide feedback toneuron circuit755 regarding the height of the IV pole. For example, if the IV pole reaches its maximum allowed height, onelimit switch767 instructsneuron circuit755 to discontinue causingmotor753 to drive the pole up. Likewise, if the pole reaches its minimum height, theother limit switch767 instructsneuron circuit755 to discontinue causingmotor753 to drive the pole down. In an alternative embodiment, asingle limit switch767 senses when the IV pole reaches its minimum height. In this embodiment, themotor753 is a stepper motor andneuron225 counts the number of steps to determine when the pole reaches its maximum height.

FIG. 39 illustratespower module103 in block diagram form. As shown,power module103 includes apower inlet771 receiving AC power. Preferably, an electromagnetic interference (EMI)filter773 conditions the power before a switchablepower supply circuit775 generates the DC voltages used by thevarious modules13 installed inbase unit7. A switchingcircuit779 then provides these voltages tobackplane101 via a backplane connector (such as connector171). In a preferred embodiment,power module103 includes aninterlock switch783, preferably located in theopening197 shown in FIG. 9, which is normally open to interrupt power from being supplied to the power bus ofbackplane101. Whenfront cover113 is installed onbase unit7, thepost195 extends into theopening197 to closeinterlock switch783. In this manner,system1 provides a reset condition each time themodules13 are changed and prevents the user from coming into contact with thebackplane101 when it is energized.

Power module103 also includes astatus LED787 indicating its active status and afan789 for preventing overheating within the module.

The attached microfiche appendix is a program listing of the software forsystem1. In accordance with the invention as described herein,computer unit3 executes the software listed in the microfiche appendix for providing the user interface and network management features of the invention. Further,neuron processors225 execute the software listed in the appendix for controlling the variousmicrosurgical instruments19 and peripherals.

In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous results attained.

As various changes could be made in the above constructions and methods without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims (25)

What is claimed is:

1. A system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments to be connected thereto, the microsurgical instruments for use by a user such as a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures, said system comprising:

a data communications bus;

a user interface connected to the data communications bus, said user interface providing information to the user and receiving information from the user which information is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments;

a first surgical module for connection to and for controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said first surgical module being connected to the data communication bus;

a second surgical module for connection to and for controlling another one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said second surgical module being connected to the data communications bus;

wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the first and second modules; and

wherein the data communications bus provides peer-to-peer communication between the first and second surgical modules.

2. The system of claim1 wherein the user interface includes a memory storing a plurality of operating parameters and includes a central processor for retrieving a set of the operating parameters from the memory, wherein the operating parameters stored in the memory are programmable and wherein the central processor reprograms the operating parameters in response to the information provided by the user via the user interface.

3. The system of claim1 wherein the user interface includes a disk drive for use with a removable memory storing data representative of a plurality of operating parameters and includes a central processor for defining a set of the operating parameters for the microsurgical instruments based on the data stored in the removable memory whereby each surgical module controls the corresponding microsurgical instrument as a function of the set of operating parameters defined by the central processor.

4. The system of claim1, wherein each module includes a flash EEPROM storing configuration and unique identification data and wherein the modules and the user interface communicate via the data communications bus as a function of the data stored in flash EEPROM.

5. The system of claim4 wherein the flash EEPROM of each surgical module stores executable routines for controlling the corresponding microsurgical instrument connected to it during performance of the surgical procedures.

6. The system of claim4 wherein the user interface includes a central processor for reprogramming the flash EEPROM of at least one of the modules via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user.

7. The system of claim1 further comprising a foot control assembly providing remote control of at least one of the microsurgical instruments and a control circuit connected to and controlling the foot control assembly, said foot control circuit being connected to the data communications bus wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the foot control circuit.

8. The system of claim7 wherein the data communications bus provides peer-to-peer communication between the foot control circuit and the first and second surgical modules.

9. The system of claim7 wherein the foot control circuit is responsive to the foot control assembly for changing the operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments.

10. The system of claim7 wherein the foot control circuit includes a flash EEPROM storing configuration and unique identification data and wherein the modules and the foot control circuit communicate via the data communications bus as a function of the data stored in flash EEPROM.

11. The system of claim7 wherein the flash EEPROM of the foot control circuit stores executable routines for controlling the foot control assembly connected to it during performance of the surgical procedures.

12. The system of claim7 wherein the user interface includes a central processor for reprogramming the flash EEPROM of the foot control circuit via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user.

13. The system of claim7 wherein the foot control circuit includes a processor receiving and responsive to the data communicated via the data communications bus for generating control signals to control the foot control assembly during performance of the surgical procedures.

14. The system of claim1 wherein each surgical module is selected from the following: an air/fluid exchange module; a scissors/forceps module; a phacoemulsification module; a phacofragmentation module; a phacoemulsification and phacofragmentation module; an irrigation/aspiration/vitrectomy module for use with a scroll pump; an irrigation/aspiration/vitrectomy module for use with a venturi pump; a bipolar coagulation module; and an illumination module.

15. The system of claim1 further comprising an intravenous (IV) pole assembly and a control circuit connected to and controlling the IV pole assembly to drive a motor to raise and lower the IV pole assembly, said IV pole control circuit being connected to the data communications bus wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the IV pole control circuit.

16. The system of claim1 wherein the operating parameters define at least one of the following: a linearly variable scissors cut rate; a fixed scissors cut rate; a single actuation scissors cut; a proportional actuation scissors closure level; an air/fluid pressure; an air/fluid flow rate; a linearly variable bipolar power level; a fixed bipolar power level; an illumination intensity level; an aspiration vacuum pressure level; an aspiration flow rate; a linearly variable vitrectomy cut rate; a fixed vitrectomy cut rate; a single actuation vitrectomy cut; a phacoemulsification power level; a phacofragmentation power level; a phacoemulsification pulse rate; a phacofragmentation pulse rate; a plurality of foot pedal pitch detent levels; and an intravenous pole height.

17. A system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments to be connected thereto, the microsurgical instruments for use by a user such as a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures, said system comprising:

a data communications bus;

a user interface connected to the data communications bus, said user interface providing information to the user and receiving information from the user which information is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments, said user interface including a central processor;

a surgical module for connection to and for controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said surgical module being connected to the data communications bus, said surgical module including a flash EEPROM storing executable routines for controlling the corresponding microsurgical instrument connected to it during performance of the surgical procedures;

wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the surgical module; and

wherein the central processor reprograms the flash EEPROM of the surgical module via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user.

18. A system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments to be connected thereto, the microsurgical instruments for use by a user such as a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures, said system comprising;

a data communications bus;

a user interface connected to the data communications bus, said user interface providing information to the user and receiving information from the user which information is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments;

a first surgical module for connection to and for controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said first surgical module being connected to the data communications bus;

a second surgical module for connection to and for controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said second surgical module being connected to the data communications bus;

wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the first and second surgical modules; and

wherein each of the modules and the user interface includes a transceiver and a processor coupled to the transceiver for receiving data from and transmitting data to the data communications bus and wherein the data communications bus, the transceivers and the

processors form a communications network whereby the modules communicate with each other and the user interface via the communications network.

19. The system of claim18, wherein the operating parameters stored in memory are programmable and wherein a central processor reprograms the operating parameters in response to the information provided by the user via the user interface.

20. The system of claim18, wherein the user interface includes a disk drive for use with a removable memory storing data representative of a plurality of operating parameters and includes a central processor for defining a set of the operating parameters for the microsurgical instruments based on the data stored in the removable memory whereby each surgical module controls the corresponding microsurgical instrument as a function of the set of operating parameters defined by the central processor.

21. The system of claim18, wherein each module includes a flash EEPROM storing configuration and unique identification data and wherein the modules and the user interface communicate via the data communications bus as a function of the data stored in the flash EEPROM.

22. The system of claim21, wherein the flash EEPROM of each surgical module stores executable routines for controlling the corresponding microsurgical instrument connected to it during performance of the surgical procedures.

23. The system of claim21, wherein the user interface includes a central processor for reprogramming the flash EEPROM of at least one of the modules via the data communications bus in response to the information provided by the user.

24. A system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments to be connected thereto, the microsurgical instruments for use by a user such as a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures, said system comprising:

a data communications bus;

a user interface connected to the data communications bus, said user interface providing information to the user and receiving information from the user which information is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments;

a first surgical module for connection to and for controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters said first surgical module being connected to the data communications bus;

a second surgical module for connection to and for controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of a least one of the operating parameters, said second surgical module being connected to the data communications bus;

wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the first and second surgical modules; and

wherein each module includes a flash EEPROM storing configuration and unique identification data and wherein the modules and the user interface communicate via the data communications bus as a function of the data stored in flash EEPROM.

25. A system for controlling a plurality of ophthalmic microsurgical instruments to be connected thereto, the microsurgical instruments for use by a user such as a surgeon in performing ophthalmic surgical procedures, said system comprising:

a data communications bus;

a user interface connected to the data communications bus, said user interface providing information to the user and receiving information from the user which information is representative of operating parameters of the microsurgical instruments;

a first surgical module for connection to and for controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said first surgical module being connected to the data communications bus;

a second surgical module for connection to and for controlling one of the microsurgical instruments as a function of at least one of the operating parameters, said second surgical module being connected to the data communications bus;

wherein at least one of the first and second modules has a flash EEPROM storing executable routines;

wherein the data communications bus provides communication of data representative of the operating parameters between the user interface and the first and second surgical modules; and

wherein the user interface includes a central processor for reprogramming the flash EEPROM of at least one of the modules via the data communications bus.

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